David Herlong Cranford, 76, entered into rest on Saturday, November 23, 2024. He was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, on January 6, 1948.

David is survived by his wife of 55 years, Frances Hancock Cranford; his son, Timm Cranford and his wife, Nickie; his grandchildren, Gracie Cranford and Chase Cranford; his brothers, Stephen Cranford (Patricia) and Peter Cranford; and nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his mother, Mary Helen Cranford; his father, Eldon Eugene Guy; his stepfather, Peter G. Cranford; and his brother, Francis Cranford.

David used his mechanical ability to build and repair car engines, and enjoyed drag racing. After receiving his private pilot's license, he flew for pleasure and business and helped a friend build a kit acrobatic plane, which he did the test flight. His love for flying was not only with planes with engines, but also gliders. He and his friend Ed built a beautiful wooden kayak and then engaged his family to enjoy kayaking, especially on Stone Mountain Lake. He enjoyed life and was always building or repairing or helping someone who needed help with their cars or airplanes. He always pulled over when he saw someone on the highway who needed help.

His family would like to thank Emory Hospital Liver Transplant, especially Dr. Ram Subramanian and his staff, for taking care of him when he received his transplant and for the years after. He was diagnosed with Alpha-1 Antripysin Deficiency. Due to Dr. Martha Crenshaw, Grady Hospital, and Emory Hospital, he was given 15 more years to love his family and be loved by them.

If desired, memorials may be made to the Georgia Transplant Foundation ( https://support.gatransplant.org/give/406301/#!/donation/checkout ).

At David's request, he was cremated and there are no services.