Remembering John Crawley: The Legacy of KingBeardX
John Crawley, widely known as KingBeardX and previously Pimpmunkx, passed away on August 18, 2025, at the age of 47, leaving behind a vibrant legacy that touched millions. The TikTok star, based in New Albany, Mississippi, died of cardiac arrest at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo following a two-week hospitalization, as confirmed by James Steele, director of Glenfield Funeral Home.
Crawley’s rise to fame began around 2020 with his comedic reaction videos, often poking fun at everyday quirks like how people eat food. His signature humor and iconic beard earned him over 2.5 million TikTok followers and nearly 1 million on Instagram. His most famous video, a passionate rant about eating cinnamon rolls “the right way,” amassed nearly 44 million views and 5.6 million likes, cementing his place as a beloved content creator. His ability to find humor in the mundane made him a relatable and cherished figure online.
On August 5, 2025, Crawley’s friend and former podcast co-host, Anthony Caruso, launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical expenses after Crawley was hospitalized with breathing difficulties. Without health insurance, the financial burden was significant for Crawley, the primary provider for his family. After his passing, the fundraiser shifted to support funeral costs and his mother, raising nearly $3,000 toward a $9,000 goal as of August 20, 2025. Caruso shared the tragic news on the GoFundMe page, writing, “I’m really sorry to tell everyone the bad news but Pimpmunkx (KingBeardx) passed away yesterday. Thank you to everyone that has supported the fundraiser so far.”
Tributes have poured in across social media, with fans leaving heartfelt messages on Crawley’s final TikTok post from July 22, 2025, and his obituary page. One fan wrote, “Your videos were a bright spot in so many dark days—a reminder to laugh, to let go, and to enjoy the little things.” Another shared, “Rest easy, king beard. Your laughter will echo forever.” Crawley’s cousin, Tonya Palmer, posted on Facebook that he passed away surrounded by family, expressing gratitude for the support from fans who were like family to him.
James Steele, a personal friend, told TMZ, “He lit up a lot of people’s worlds. I just left his house and was with his mother, we prayed together. She’s torn up right now but she’s going to make it.” Crawley’s passing has also sparked discussions about the challenges faced by digital creators, particularly the lack of health insurance, as highlighted by the financial strain noted in the GoFundMe campaign. Despite earning an estimated $145,800 to $199,640 annually from sponsored content and platform revenue, the absence of insurance underscored broader issues in the gig economy.
Born on November 28, 1977, in New Albany, Mississippi, Crawley’s journey to social media stardom was marked by his larger-than-life personality and genuine connection with his audience. His final TikTok post invited fans to a meet-and-greet in New Albany, a plan cut short by his hospitalization. His legacy lives on through the countless videos that brought joy to millions, and his impact is evident in the outpouring of love from his community.
For those wishing to support Crawley’s family, donations can be made through the GoFundMe campaign or the Glenfield Funeral Home donation link. Rest in peace, John Crawley—KingBeardX—your light will continue to shine in the hearts of your fans.
Sources:
Newsweek
TMZ
GoFundMe
Glenfield Funeral Home
Times Now