Bill was born in Farmington, Arkansas at home, about where the University of Arkansas football field is now, on July 20, 1923 to Ivy Idel Parker Craig and James McDonald Craig. He grew up in Norman, Oklahoma near the North Canadian River and enjoyed rope swinging and dropping into the river with friends. He was the youngest of 5 children.
Bill graduated from Bentonville High School in 1941 and shortly afterwards enlisted in the United States Army/Air Force where he attained the rank of 2d Lieutenant. He was a bombardier-gunner, navigator and radar operator in WWII. Upon receiving an honorable discharge, he decided to remain in the reserves. He was awarded the American Theater Medal and WWII Victory Medal.
He then went to the University of Arkansas where he received his B.S. in Industrial Engineering and Masters in Business Administration. He worked for several years in the oil fields as a chemical and industrial engineer.
He was recalled into the Air Force during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged, for a second time, in 1952.
In Chicago, Bill did research and development on the Antenna for the Nike Zeus Anti-Missile Missile System. That system still protects our country.
In 1961, he met his wife, Janice Elaine Plzak, M.D. in Illinois. They were married June 13, 1962 and moved to Houston, Texas, settling in Seabrook.
Bill was Program Manager for the Space Science Division at NASA, having to do the science experiments that went on the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo space flights.
He was an amazing man and wonderful father to his four children, Bill, Kathy, Cheryl and Don. He was always available for their activities and shared his knowledge and advice when they needed it throughout their lives.
In the later part of his life, he came to know the Lord and was enthusiastic in learning more about the Word and helping with church pursuits. He enjoyed mentoring and fellowshipping with his brothers and sisters in Christ. He was a member of the Morning Star Baptist Church and then the Leslie First Baptist Church.
After developing health issues, he and Janice moved to Spring, Texas. They had been married 57 precious years when he went to be with our Lord on January 29, 2020.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Jenny Sue Craig; and brothers, Oren, Donald, and John Craig.
He is survived by his wife, Janice; sons, William (Bill) Craig and his wife, Donna, Don and his wife, Billie Jo; daughters, Kathleen (Kathy) Dodd and her husband, Steve, Cheryl Garza and her husband, Augustine; grandchildren, Jonathan Craig, Christopher Garza (Margaret); Amanda Sandoval, Joshua Craig, Devin Craig (Shelby), Evan Craig, Krystina Crenwelge (Micah), Elizabeth Perez (Michael); 12 great-grandchildren (with 2 more on the way); brothers and sisters-in-law; and many extended family and friends.
His signature smile and gracious ways will be missed by all.
