Ivan Craig Deadrick

The esteemed Ivan Craig Deadrick was born on August 22, 1953 to Charles Harold Deadrick Jr. and Lillie Mae Moore in Houston, Texas. He is the second born of five children to Lillie. His family and friends affectionately call him Craig.

In 1971, he graduated from M.B. Smiley High School. He went on to attend Lon Morris Junior College in Jacksonville, Texas where he earned his Associate of Arts degree in 1973. He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from United States International University San Diego in 1975. In 1976, he moved to New York and continued his education graduating from New York University earning his Masters of Fine Arts degree in 1979. He learned to play the piano at an early age and progressively got better with time. He could carry a tune too!

As you can tell Craig had a love for the arts! A few of his star- studded appearances include: The Guiding Light, Another World, Planter’s Peanuts Commercial, Harlem Nocturne, Godspell and The Broadway Toppers. Through his hard work and dedication Craig became a high- level Manager at Xerox. Craig didn’t have children of his own but mentored, encouraged and supported his many nieces and nephews.

Craig later decided to attend law school, earning his Juris Doctor from Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in 1998 at the age of 44. He became a Professor at Long Island University teaching mediation. He also used his law degree to help his family as needed. For years he worked as Deputy Project Director at The Center for Court Innovation of Harlem, before he retired.

Continuing the mission of his mother Lillie, Craig lead the establishment of Deadrick Housing, now known as Lillie’s New Chapter, LLC with his siblings and worked to successfully provide affordable housing to men on and off parole for over 13 years.

He leaves to cherish his memory, partner for over 20 years Brandon Ortiz; siblings, Robert Deadrick, Mayta Deadrick-Simon (Timothy), Lily Bilinda Shilo, devoted nephew Ramond Deadrick, a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. He will be greatly missed and forever in our hearts!