James Alan Craig, Sr, of Fort Payne, Alabama, passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at the age of 67 after an unexpected illness and discovery of cancer.
A retired Captain of the City of Fort Payne Fire Department, James dedicated 26 years of his life to public service, bravely answering the call when others ran away.
During his career, James, best known as Possum, was known for his dedication, compassion, sense of humor, and laugh that could bring a smile under the most challenging circumstances. James was a mentor to a vast number of young firefighters, and his commitment to excellence left an unforgettable mark on all who had the privilege to work with him.
He also had a deep love for fishing, motorcycle riding, and Crimson Tide football. Above all, James was a compassionate, loving person who never met a stranger, had a bigger than life laugh, and deeply loved his family.
Funeral services will be 2:00pm, Sunday, November 2nd, at the Wilson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Brian Harris officiating. Burial will follow in the Fischer Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 12:00 noon until the 2:00pm hour of service at the funeral home.
James is survived by his wife of 45 years, Vickie; three children, James Allan Craig Jr. (Melissa), Joey (Jenny) Gravitt, and Bridget (Chris) Graham; grandchildren, Joshua (Adrean) Gravitt, Keelyn Graham, Jayla (Peyton) Smith, Anabel Craig, Connor Motes, Aidan Motes, and Brookston Graham; great-grandchildren, Jay Karter Van Gravitt, Azzie Kate Smith, and Rollins Tate Gravitt; brother, Tim (Sherry) Craig; and sister, Debra Ann King.
He is preceded in death by his father, James H. Craig; mother, Jessie Mae Craig; daughter, Brooke Craig Motes; and brother-in-law, Richard King.
