Gary Allen Craig

Gary Allen Craig was born November 6, 1945, in St. Louis, Missouri. He was one of three sons born to Voris Everett and Ludie (Sanders) Craig. Gary was raised by his brother, Farris, and grew up in Salem where he attended Salem High School. Gary graduated from Wentworth Military Academy in Lexington, Missouri. He later furthered his education at Drury University where he obtained his bachelor’s degrees. On October 8, 1966, Gary enlisted into the United States Army. During his time in the military, he served during the Vietnam War and earned several decorations, medals, badges, ribbons, and awards. Gary was honorably discharged June 30, 1973, after seven years of dedication to his country. Gary was united in marriage to, Janet Kay Atchison, on December 15, 1986, in Lake Tahoe, Nevada. They were blessed with nearly thirty-seven years of lasting memories together. Gary and Janet shared four children: Bryon, Brent, Melissa, and Cristie. Gary worked in the family business, Craig Distributing, with his brothers until his retirement in 2000. He was an avid golfer and very active at the Spring Creek Golf Club. Gary was a man of great faith and lifelong member of Salem United Methodist Church. Gary liked to garden, enjoyed fishing, and loved to spend time with his family making memories at the Lake of the Ozarks. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were his world and brought him great joy. He truly enjoyed being called Papa or Grumpo. Gary entered eternal rest on November 21, 2023, in Salem, Missouri, at the age of seventy-eight years. Those left behind to cherish his memory include his loving wife: Janet Craig of Salem, MO; children: Bryon Craig and wife Kristi of Salem, MO, Brent Craig of Liberty Hill, TX, Melissa Smith and husband Randy of Marshfield, MO, and Cristie Cunningham of Clayton, MO; brother: Jerry Craig and wife Meredith of Overland Park, KS; grandchildren: Cody Craig, Gannon Craig, Kyle Vickers, Brittany Aldridge and husband Mitch, Avery Craig, Ashton Craig, Makenna Slinger and husband Shane, Kara Smith, and Camryn Smith and fiancé Jeremy; great-grandchildren: Kaydrien, Maelynn, Kasen, Riley, and Presley; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding him in death, his parents: Voris and Ludie Craig; and his brother: Farris Craig and wife Alice. Gary leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, faith, and compassion that will forever serve as an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be forever missed. Celebration of Life for Gary Allen Craig was held Friday, December 1, 2023, at the Salem United Methodist Church with Pastor Barry Baugh officiating. His son Brent Craig shared some words and granddaughters, Makenna Slinger, Kara Smith, and Camryn Smith shared a poem. Special Music was provided by pianist Ann Emory and soloist Lisa Wulff as well as the St. Louis Scottish Bagpiper Chris Apps. Honorary Ushers to Cedar Grove Cemetery were Brian and Melanie Wisdom. Military Honors was provided by the American Legion Post 99 and the Missouri Honors Team. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of Gary Craig to the LovePack BackPack Program or the Salem High School Marching Band and left with Wilson Mortuary. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Gary Allen Craig

November 6, 1945 - November 21, 2023