Marvin LeRoy Cravens

Marvin LeRoy Cravens, 74, of Hixson, Tenn., passed away Thursday, Sept. 15, 2011.

He was born in New Madrid, Mo., on Sept. 30, 1936. He graduated from high school in Caruthersville, Mo., and graduated cum laude with a bachelor's degree in accounting from Southeast Missouri State University. LeRoy was the first player to be offered a full football scholarship to Southeast. He played on the National Championship Division II team in 1955 and was inducted into the university's Hall of Fame.

LeRoy was employed by Central Soya Co., where he served as general manager of its plants in Montgomery, Ala., and New Oxford, Pa., and was general manager of Southeast Division of Central Soya, based in Chattanooga, Tenn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Floy and Albert Cravens of Caruthersville, and a sister, Joan Cravens Hubert of Knoxville, Tenn.

LeRoy is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Peggy Elizabeth Barker Cravens; a son, Lee Cravens; a daughter, Susan Cravens Parker; two grandchildren, Justin and Megan Parker, all of Chattanooga; a sister, Vickie Cravens Baskin of Memphis, Tenn.; and several nieces and nephews.

There is no visitation or service.

Private burial will be in IOOF Cemetery at Charleston, Mo.

Shelby Funeral Home in East Prairie, Mo., is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in LeRoy's name to Ronald McDonald House, 200 Central Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37403, or to the American Cancer Society.

Online condolences may be made at www.shelbyfuneral.com.