Craig R. Ailles passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025. He was surrounded by loved ones who prayed with him and sang hymns, as singing hymns was one of his favorite things to do. Craig was born February 9, 1936, in Ironton, OH to William Charles Ailles and Rose Mary Ailles (nee, Tufts). Due to Craig’s father being an FBI agent, Craig and family spent their early years following his father’s assignments in Washington D.C., New Orleans, Des Moines, and Cincinnati, OH. Craig graduated from Withrow High School in Cincinnati and then Cincinnati University with a bachelor’s degree in engineering. While at the university, Craig was in ROTC and upon graduation, joined the U. S. Army in 1958. In June 1961, Craig married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn Jean Williams. They would spend the next 64 years happily together.
Craig had an illustrious career in the Army. He did two tours of duty in Vietnam, for which he received two Bronze Stars for meritorious service in a war zone. He and Marilyn were also assigned to Thailand and Germany. Craig retired from the Army at the rank of Major from Redstone Arsenal in 1978. He immediately went to work for Science Applications International Corporation. He was employed at SAIC until his passing. He was a major contributor to the company’s success and leaves behind many who enjoyed working with him and will miss the joy and comradery he brought to the workplace.
Craig was very devoted and active with church and community activities. Craig was a member of the choir. He participated in Christian plays and sang solos. He taught Sunday school and supported local and foreign missionaries. Every week he collected bread to distribute to local kitchens which fed the needy in Huntsville. He was always ready to share his love and faith in Christ. He will be missed by many beloved friends and neighbors.
Craig is survived by his wife, Marilyn; his brother, William Dale Ailles and wife, Rosemarie; his nieces, Angela Ailles Bahm and husband, Mark, and Lisa Dipino; his nephew, Alan Dale Ailles and wife, Elizabeth; and great nieces, Isabella Bahm, Alana Ailles, and Lauren Ailles.
A graveside service with military honors will take place on Thursday, June 26 at 2 p.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery.
We will miss our beloved husband, brother, uncle and friend, but Craig Ailles will live on in the beautiful and funny stories and memories he gave us.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to a Christian or community charity of your choice.
