Johnnie Henry “John” Craig, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home in Clarkesville on March 7, 2024, after a courageous battle with glioblastoma. He was 75 years old.
Born on May 7, 1948, in Jackson County, Georgia, John was the fourth of five children to the late Lonnie Craig and Sarah Holcomb Church. He is also preceded in death by his grandmother, Nancy Holcomb, who helped raise him; brother, Henry Craig; sister, Marjorie Craig Cofield; brother-in-law, Clifford Cofield; stepfather, Raymond Church; and great-nephew, Justin Cofield.
John is survived by his wife, Mitzi Stone Craig of Clarkesville; son, Kevin Craig (Katie Marsh) of Decatur; daughter, Kelly Craig Solesbee (David); and granddaughter, Columbia “Coco” Solesbee of Jacksonville, Florida. He is also survived by his brother, Tim Craig (Edith) of Bowman, and sister, Carolyn Craig of Jefferson, as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.
John served his country with honor, spending a combined 22 years in the United States Marine Corps, including two tours in Vietnam. Despite a brief hiatus as a building contractor after his first stint, John’s passion for military life led him to re-enlist and go on to spend several more years as a Marine. He retired in 1997 to move closer to his family in Georgia and fulfill his dream of being a farmer.
Settling into farm life, John found joy in working with his hands, whether it was raising his chickens or enjoying his hobbies of fishing, carpentry and gardening. He was a proud recipient of the Grower of the Year award in his first year as a farmer.
Throughout his life and later despite his illness, John remained fun-loving and selfless, always putting the needs of others before his own, a testament to his deeply held Christian faith. He cherished the time spent with his family, including his granddaughter Coco, with whom he shared a special bond.
John will be remembered for his faith, his dedication to his country, his passion for farming, and his love for his family. He leaves behind a legacy of service, hard work, love, and devotion that will continue to be a comfort to those who love him.
Funeral services for John will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Hillside Memorial Chapel. The family will receive friends at the funeral home prior to the service Thursday from 1-2 p.m. The services will be conducted by John’s dear friend, Rev. Denver Cavins.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Glioblastoma Research Organization in John’s memory.
An online guestbook is available for the family at www.hillsidememorialchapel.com.
Arrangements are in the care and professional direction of Hillside Memorial Chapel & Gardens, Clarkesville, GA. 706-754-6256
