Robert E. Craig

Everyone’s life is the sum total of all of the people they have met, the things they have done, the places they have gone. Robert Elijah Craig was no exception. He was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew him best, Robert will be remembered as a very exceptional person.

Robert’s life journey began on March 24th, 1940. He first greeted the world in Lester, West Virginia. His parents' names were Betty and Elijah Craig. Growing up in Lester, West Virginia, Robert was raised with one brother William D. Craig. He and his Brother experienced the typical rivalries of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

Making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He graduated from Conley High School. After high school, the next big step in a person’s life is heading off to college. Though it was a challenge with all of the academics and responsibilities that accompanied it, he was able to manage the balancing act. Robert attended Chapman University where he received a B.A. in Criminal Justice in 1975.

Falling in love is a huge milestone for any person. Just knowing that you have met that special someone is a magical feeling. Robert experienced that with Frances Beshelle Williams and they exchanged wedding vows on July 9th, 1963 in West Virginia. Empathic and loyal, Robert was committed to making his new family happy.

While everything a person does in life contributes to who they grow into, it is ultimately this same person who holds the most influence on the next generation. Robert worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Robert was blessed with two children, Robert S. Craig and Rosalind M. Craig. He worked hard toward raising his children in a positive and nurturing environment.

Robert served in the United States Navy for twenty years, during which he saw duty in Vietnam and was awarded various medals. Robert achieved the final rank of E-8. His fellow soldiers viewed him as a brother in arms and knew that he was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home.

How a person performs in the workplace can be a reflection on how they live their life. Fortunately, Robert enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Robert worked diligently and did his best to succeed in each of his jobs. Robert’s primary occupation was working as for Immigration and Naturalization Services for thirteen years as a supervisor, later retiring as a GS13. He had also previously worked three years at King Fahad Hospital in Saudi Arabia as a housing officer.

A person's hobbies often mirror who they have become. Robert enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in a number of different activities, including traveling, fishing, hunting and always helping people in need. He was usually willing to share his interests with others.

Robert Craig left us on April 27th, 2011. He passed away at home at the age of 71. The cause of death was natural. He is survived by his wife Frances B. Craig, his son Robert S. Craig, his daughter Rosalind M. Craig, his daughter-in-law Barbara J. Craig, his grandchildren Marquisia, Cassandra, Niko, Reanna and Jourdain, and his great-grandchild to be born November 11, 2011 and his brother William D. Craig. Services were handled by Glen Abbey Memorial Park and Mortuary at The Little Chapel of the Roses. Robert was laid to rest at Glen Abbey Memorial Park.

So this is Robert’s life, the sum of the man that he became. Simply stated, Robert was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being caring and giving, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Robert leaves behind him a legacy of lifelong friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life Robert Elijah Craig touched will always remember him with a smile.