William Craig Young

William Craig Young, 73, of Overland Park, Kansas, passed away on Sunday, July 6, 2025. Known as “Craig” to his family and friends, he will be forever remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to all who knew him.

Craig was born on October 16, 1951, in Kansas City, Missouri, to William Garland and Nancy Arlene (Barnes) Young. He attended Shawnee Mission South and graduated from Shawnee Mission West High School in 1969. Following high school, Craig studied architecture at the University of Kansas for two years before dedicating himself to his true passion—music.

A talented and passionate musician, Craig’s love for music spanned more than 50 years. He was a founding member of the band Nation, which earned him induction into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame in 2019. His contributions to the Kansas music scene enriched the lives of many, and his legacy as a musician will continue to inspire.

Craig met the love of his life, Debra Stevens, in October 1981 while performing in Independence, Missouri. They were married on December 28, 1985, and together they raised their beloved daughter, Brittan.

Beyond music, Craig enjoyed creative writing and was known for his thoughtful emails to friends, for carefully organizing activities, and for composing many heartfelt eulogies. He was a natural planner and organizer, traits that reflected his caring and considerate nature.

Craig was preceded in death by his parents, William Garland and Nancy Arlene Young, and his son-in-law, Lawrence Henderson.

He is survived by his loving wife Debra (Stevens) Young; his cherished daughter Brittan Young-Henderson and her fiancé Edward Allen; his granddaughters Bridget Young Henderson and Genevieve Young Henderson; his brother Kent Young and his wife Clista; his sister Nanette (Young) Lundgren and her husband Dave; and five nephews, four nieces, three great-nieces, and one great-nephew.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 14, from 9:00 to 10:00 AM at McGilley and Frye Funeral Home, 105 E. Loula St., Olathe, KS. A memorial service will follow from 10:00 to 10:30 AM, with inurnment at Pleasant Valley Cemetery, 9501 S. 159th St., Overland Park, KS 66221, at 11:00 AM.

As one of his final wishes, Craig requested that guests wear sweatpants and Henley shirts to the service in his honor—but above all, he wanted everyone to feel comfortable and be themselves.

The family wishes to thank all who have offered support during this time.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in William's memory may be made to KC Hospice House, 12000 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MO 64145 US, https://kchospice.org/donate/; and Midwest Music Foundation, https://midwestmusicfoundation.org/donate/.