Rommy Lee Craig

He is survived by his wife, Donnie Craig; his children, Michelle Craig-Columbia, Amanda Doremus (Ryan), Barry Moss and Shawn Moss; his sister, Eunice Sacco; grandchildren, Braxton Richmond, Everett Richmond, Kynlee Brewer, Mitchel Moss and Kacie Moss; many nieces and nephews; lifelong friend, Jeff Wilkes and many more family and friends.

In Rommy’s earlier life he served his country in the Navy as a draftsman. He was stationed at the naval base in San Diego, CA and ran the Naval art shop creating entertainment and news for navy personnel. Despite his unbelievable talent towards his artwork, when he was honorably discharged from the Navy in 1966, he began to pursue a different passion in travel. He owned and managed his own travel agency here in Bakersfield, Stockdale Argos Travel, and later partnered with Lambourne Travel Partners until around 2005. Throughout his life, he explored the world and was able to visit most of the world's countries.

Despite all his worldly endeavors, his family was his greatest passion. He cherished being a Dad above everything else. When the time arose for him to become a grandpa, aka ‘White Papa,’ his heart was fully content. He had so much love to share and spoiled his grandchildren to the fullest. He poured his heart and soul into being the best father and grandfather he could be, nurturing strong bonds and creating lasting memories with each cherished moment shared. Not only did he attend countless sport games and school achievements, he enjoyed the simple things in life, like taking them to Rite Aide for some delicious Thrifty ice cream. He was a one-of-a-kind husband, father, White Papa, and overall family man.

Rommy was known for his friendly and outgoing personality and enjoyed his family, photography, computer graphics, and artwork. His computer graphics were far ahead of his time. It was hard to believe most things he created digitally were not reality. He definitely had a head start on Artificial Intelligence (AI). The memories he was able to create and capture through his pictures, paintings, books, magazine ads and videos will forever be treasured. Most times, his family thought his camera was permanently glued to his hands! He loved to make others laugh. You could always find him cracking jokes, or even dressing up like Austin Powers (fake teeth included), all for the entertainment of others.

Though his physical presence may no longer grace our lives, the warmth of his love and the echo of his laughter will forever linger in our hearts, serving as a beacon of comfort and solace in moments of sorrow.

Forever in our hearts, we will miss you “A bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck, and a million, billion, trillion, more.”

Military Services will be held on March 7, 2024 at 10:30am at the Bakersfield National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Jude’s Childrens’ Hospital or the American Heart Association.