Marie Crotts

Marie Crotts, 83, of Lexington, NC died on April 2, 2026 at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Lexington. Born on February 5, 1943 in Mollay, France to Leon and Eugenie Rangeard, she was the middle child of seven children. 

She was in her early 20s when she met Paul Crotts, an American soldier, at a small military café where she worked. It took a little convincing before she finally agreed to go on their first date. On February 22, 1964, Marie married Paul in with her sister, Louisette, as her maid of honor. They welcomed their first daughter, Janet, in Chinon at a military hospital. February 5, 1965, Marie came to the United States for the first time on her 22nd birthday. The little family settled in Winston-Salem, NC. Marie's family grew to a family of 5 with the addition of Christine in 1967 and Valerie in 1973. In 1977, they moved to Davidson county to the home in which Marie lived her final days. Marie could not speak English when they first arrived in the United States. Marie taught herself to read and write in English. Then in 1973, Paul decided Marie should learn to drive. So he bought her a car and gave her the keys. Then told her to practice. In this way, Marie was strong minded. She taught herself English, to drive and then she went on to start the International Club of Lexington in order to bring people together from other countries. She was a member of the Lexington Women's Club. And for a time volunteered teaching some Lexington elementary school children French. Marie enjoyed bowling. She loved gardening and watching old movies. Marie continued to drive until she was 81 years old. 

Marie is proceeded in death by the love of her life, Paul. Her parents, 2 brothers Jean and Gabriel and a sister, Jeanne. A granddaughter, Angel and grandson, Alex. Her close friends Michelle and Bob Paris, and others that were loved dearly as well. 

Marie is survived by daughters Janet (Allen) Cassidy of Florida, Chistine (Billy) Honeycutt, and Valerie (Michael of Charlotte) Myers. Grandchildren, Cass (Torri), Paul (Lauren), Joseph, Savannah, Jonathan, Austin and Arielle. Great-grandchildren Grayson, Tristen, Lucas and Noah. Her sisters Louisette and Suzanne and brother Andre of France. As well as nephews, nieces and cousins. Close family friends, Claudette and family, the Paris family, Danielle, Rose and Mary Lee. 

Marie's memorial service is to be held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 12:00pm at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, Lexington, NC.