James Buford Craig, 88, of Athens, passed away on Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at Riverside-Senior Living. Mr. Craig was born January 5, 1932 in Limestone County to James Thomas Craig, Sr. and Mariah Mamie Smith Craig.
Funeral services for Buford will be held on Friday, January 17, 2020 at 11:00
a.m. at Limestone Chapel Funeral Home with Steve Klein and Jeff Smith officiating. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 16, 2020 from 6:00 until 9:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Limestone Memorial Gardens.
He is survived by his sons, Dennis Hilary Craig (Donna), Bruce Alan Craig (Angela) and Gary Edwin Craig (Sherryl); 10 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; brother, James Thomas Craig, Jr. (Tula), sisters, Nellie Dean Mitchell (Billy) and Magdalene Richter (Freddy); several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Preceded in death by his parents; wife, Hattie Faye Craig; brother, Grady Buren Craig; sister, Mamie Brackeen; grandson, Jonathan Daniel.
Buford was a faithful man in every way. As a teenager, he worked diligently on the farm for his parents in west Limestone county. Soon after, he was loyal to the Navy for 20 years and retired as lieutenant. Following his career in the military, Buford returned to Athens where he worked at Gordon Chrysler from 1969-1997 as a service manager. He honored his marriage of nearly 61 years and stayed by his wife during her passing. He was an exceptional father, father-in-law, uncle, grandfather, and friend. He consistently attended the East Side church of Christ congregation where he arrived 30 minutes early to visit. He led heart-felt prayers and knowledgeable bible studies. He was a good steward of every resource God blessed him with, including his house and lawn, finances, and pets. He was faithful also to his talents, which included woodwork, gardening, word puzzles, and most importantly: his unfailing sense of humor.
Buford was a natural giver just as much as he was a natural leader. He was the prime example of how a leader must first serve and give. He was very sharing toward his family. He shared many of his earnings and loaned his possessions as needed. He was quick to help those who were struggling even if there was nothing in return for him. He was just as generous with his time and energy. He visited sick friends and attended several funerals to lift the hands of those who were grieving. He spent hours upon hours helping family with house projects. He was a regular attendee of many birthday parties and left his garage door open for drop-in visits.
During the last years of his life, Buford anticipated his reunion with his wife. It was evident that he had his mind set on a final destination. Just a week before his passing, Buford shared one of his favorite memories of his marriage: “Being at home with her.” Because he lived such a faithful and generous life, there is every reason to be confident that he will be home again with her and resting in the peace of God the Father:
“Precious in the sight of the Lord, is the death of His godly ones.” (Psalm 116:15)
“His lord said to him, ‘Well done good and faithful servant…enter into the joy of your lord.’” (Mt. 26:23)
