William Richard Craddock

William Richard Craddock, beloved father, friend, and mentor, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2025, at the age of 77. He was born on February 12, 1948, in Elk City, Oklahoma to loving parents William Wallace Craddock and Mary Lahoma Nicholson. He carried with him the values of hard work, education, and integrity throughout his life.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering from Auburn University and later pursued a master’s degree in business administration from Western New England College in Springfield, Massachusetts. His passion for learning was evident in everything he did, as he encouraged those around him to value education, self-respect, and critical thinking.

Dedicated to serving his country, William spent 20 years in the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of Major and serving as a Mission Crew Commander. His service earned him numerous accolades, including the Air Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Air Force Overseas Ribbon, Long Combat Readiness Medal, and Small Arms Expert Marksmanship.

He grew up in Alabama, then after spending time in Massachusetts, he moved to Oklahoma in the 1980s, where he built a life filled with passion for knowledge, music, and sports. A devoted Auburn fan, he found great joy in watching his team triumph—especially over Alabama. His love for music, particularly from the 1960s, provided a soundtrack to his life, and he found humor in relatable experiences and life's many ironies.

William married Cheryl Vargas in 1986, and though they later divorced in 2004, they shared meaningful years together. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Mark Craddock and his sister Pamela Craddock Warren. He is survived by his children Lindy Stanley and her husband Paul of Edmond, Oklahoma, and Will Craddock II and his fiancé Deanna Dang of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, his brothers Mike and Jeff Craddock, his sister Candy Craddock Jones, his granddaughter Natalie Barrera, one niece, four nephews, one great nephew, five great nieces, and many friends.

He will be remembered for his wisdom, generosity, and deep enthusiasm for the things he loved. Whether sharing life lessons or simply enjoying the comfort of home, he made an impact on those fortunate enough to know him.