Tawnya Leella Birden

Tawnya LeElla (Crutchfield) Birden, age 53, passed away peacefully March 9, 2021, at Saint Vincent Hospital in Anderson, IN after a brief illness. She was born October 29, 1967, in Palm Springs, CA. She was the daughter Don (Marcia) Crutchfield of Vernon Hills, IL and late mother, Shirley Ream. She was also predeceased by her husband of 17 years, Michael Birden of Anderson. Tawnya grew up in Fort Wayne, IN, graduated from Northrop High School, and attended Indiana University – Purdue University Fort Wayne. After working at North American Corporation for 9 years, she and Mike moved to Anderson where she was employed at The Herald Bulletin since 2012. Tawnya is survived by her daughter, Chyenne (Chris Terry) Strong of Fort Wayne; sister, Terry Phillips of Anderson; brother, Jeff (Emily) Crutchfield of Vernon Hills, IL; cousin, Angie Van Valkenburg of San Diego, CA; as well as many devoted nieces, nephews and caring members of Mike’s family. She loved spending time with her family and her beloved dog, Harley, especially during football season when the Colts were winning. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm, March 14, 2021 at Brown But & Diedring Funeral Service, 515 E 53 St, Anderson, IN. The family will receive friends from 1 to 3:00 pm Sunday at the funeral home. Friends and family are encouraged to sign their online guest book and leave a loving memory. Those attending services for Tawnya are required to wear a mask and observe social distancing.