Craig Francis Devine

Craig Francis Devine, 86, passed away peacefully at home in Southport, NC on May 30th, 2026, a few days after expressing joy and the love he felt from a visit with his sons and entire immediate family.

Craig was born in Cincinnati, Ohio on June 16th, 1939, to John and Ruth Francis Devine, who preceded him in death when he was 19 years old.

Growing up in Cincinnati, Craig loved to jokingly remind his family that he "walked both ways, uphill, through the snow, rain, wind, and sun" just to get to school. In reality, those school days were filled with lifelong friendships and athletic talent, as Craig excelled as a baseball player, a hurdler, and a bowler on his high school teams.

Following high school, Craig attended the University of Cincinnati's School of Art and Architecture. He successfully put himself through the rigorous program by participating in the university's work-study co-op program, alternating one semester in the classroom and the next working in the field. Beyond his studies, Craig was a natural leader on campus. Deeply loved by his fraternity brothers, he served proudly as his fraternity's president.

It was during these years that Craig met the love of his life, Anne Hatcher, on a blind date. Arriving two hours late from Portsmouth, Ohio, Anne appeared to find Craig literally sitting up in a tree, hands shielding his eyes, looking out for his date. He successfully chased after her from that moment on, perfectly following the advice Anne’s mother gave her: "let him chase you until you catch him." They were happily married for 61 wonderful years.

In his professional career, Craig was fortunate enough to merge his design talents with his lifelong love of racing when he worked for companies in Indianapolis, Indiana—home of the famous Indianapolis 500. A brilliant creator, he developed trademarks for various companies and helped develop major sports drinks and food products that remain instantly recognizable and widely used by people every single day.

Living in Indy also brought Craig some of his most unique life experiences. During the famous "Month of May" leading up to the Indy 500, he had the unforgettable thrill of literally driving NASCAR race car number 88 through the streets of Indianapolis, serving as the pace car for the city's massive OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. Following that excitement, Craig was fortunate enough to drive in the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), racing on the various sports car tracks in the surrounding states.

His beautiful blue eyes and big smile shone their brightest when his sons became part of his life. He was totally devoted to them. He was fiercely dedicated to their young lives, coaching baseball, building up Cub Scout and Boy Scout troops, and being deeply involved in all activities in their lives.

Singing was another lifelong passion for Craig. He lent his voice to the church choir for many years and, later in life, eagerly joined the barbershop chorus. His greatest joy came from volunteering at church in every aspect possible, as well as designing and producing big, beautiful artwork and proclamations at Christmas and Easter—including large signs like "He is Risen" hand-crafted out of wood—that were proudly posted above the church doors.

In addition to singing, Craig thoroughly enjoyed helping develop, produce, and MC shows. This natural talent seamlessly transitioned into directing and running conventions, both large and small. Behind the scenes, Craig with his team ran every production flawlessly with "no white spots," as they say in show business.

Craig was sincerely thankful to his neighbors and friends for their generous giving, help, kindness, and support throughout the past few years.

He was a true jack-of-all-trades with a wonderful sense of humor and a deep love to serve. He loved to eat out, and he loved to tease Anne until his arms finally laid down to his side in peace.

Craig is survived by his loving, caring wife Anne; his two sons, Marc David Devine and Todd Christian Devine; his beautiful grandchildren, Marc Andrew Devine (Kendra) and Lauren Taylor Devine; and his beautiful great-grandchildren, Alyiah and baby Andrew (Bubba). He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, David Hatcher (Georgia) and Neal Hatcher (Vicky), along with several wonderful nieces and nephews.

There are no planned services at this time.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com

Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.