Lee Morris Craig

On Friday, May 20, 2016, the world lost an incredible man, loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, a wonderful son and brother, respected uncle and an unforgettable friend. Lee Morris Craig was known for his wit and great intellect. He was born on December 29, 1953 to Ruth and Allan Craig in Oklahoma City, OK. He was born with spinal muscular atrophy and his mother was told he will never walk. At the age of 7 years old, with Lee’s strong-will and determination, he beat the odds and walked.

Shortly after graduating high school in Spokane, Washington he married his high school sweetheart, Mary Lou Gibson. A tale of true love, the pair had been married for over forty-three years. Together, they shared a son, Robert Craig. Lee was a man of principle, generosity and integrity whose love for the things that he held dear knew no boundaries. Nevertheless, he was a prankster.

In the late 60s, he was a member of the Three Dog Night rock band before they became famous, and co-authored “Never Been to Spain”. When he was about to sign with the band, he experienced health issues. Lee was a resilient man who never complained. He held onto his faith and transformed the situation with his infectious energy, smile, passion and fearlessness. He was an inspiration to all who knew him. He embodied change.

As an animal lover, particularly American pit bull terriers, Lee has been successfully involved in practically every facet of the pure bred dogs: breeding, exhibiting, professionally handling, and judging. Many of his dogs have been trained for K-9 units, therapy, competitions and some were featured in movies such as “Black Dog”. He won many championships and in 1994 the American Dog Breeders Show (ADBSI) awarded him as “Dog Man of the Year”. Lee and Mary became judges for ADBSI and traveled the United States and Canada.

No amount of words can sum up the life of Lee Morris Craig or all of his accomplishments. He lived life to the fullest by always relishing the adventures he created. He strived for excellence no matter what the activity; he had a strong competitive nature to be the best. In all areas of his life he mentored many people. Lee could often be found in his shop designing, repairing and creating. His mantra was “It’s Only Weird, If it Doesn’t Work”. He created and constructed a 3-wheel motorcycle trike, a canon to fire his homemade fireworks, fire hydrant repairs, dog houses and the list goes on.

We will always remember and treasure the love Lee showed to his family and all those around him. His legacy of love will live on, and we will never forget the difference he made in people’s life on this earth by the way he lived his life. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Carsey and Catherine Williams; father-in-law, Robert N. Gibson. Lee is survived by his wife, Marylou; son, Robert Craig and wife, Stacie; godson, R.W. Spellman and wife, Angela; parents, Allan & Ruth Craig; sisters, Robin, Carrie, Cathy; brothers, Scott, Sean; grandchildren, Taiden Craig, Brent Spellman, Bryson McCool; mother-in-law, Rose Gibson, and a host of extended family and friends.