Willie Craft Jr.

Willie H. Craft, Jr., age 84, of Waldron, Arkansas, passed peacefully from this life on June 29, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. While their hearts are broken by his passing, they find comfort in knowing that the legacy of his love, strength, and kindness will live on in each of them.

Born on March 15, 1942, in Newton, Texas, Willie lived a life defined by service, hard work, and an unwavering devotion to those he loved. He proudly answered his country's call, serving three tours during the Vietnam War. His courage and determination led him to become a Drill Sergeant, where he trained young soldiers for the realities of combat. Though he rarely sought recognition for his service, those who knew Willie understood the quiet strength, discipline, and selflessness that remained with him throughout his life.

Following his military service, Willie began a 36-year career as a boilermaker with Boilermakers Local Union 587 in Orange, Texas. He took pride in honest work and believed that a job worth doing was worth doing right. He earned the respect of those he worked beside, not only because of his skill, but because of the character he carried every day.

To know Willie was to know a man with a gentle heart and a creative soul. He loved art, painting, and creating beautiful custom paint jobs, turning ordinary things into works of art with his steady hands and vivid imagination. He enjoyed sharing his talents with others and found joy in creating something unique.

More than anything else, Willie loved his family. He was the steady presence they leaned on, the voice of wisdom they trusted, and the first to offer a helping hand. He never asked for much in return. His kindness was genuine, his smile welcoming, and his heart always open to family, friends, and even strangers. He had a remarkable way of making people feel valued simply by being himself.

His son Trey often said that Willie was his hero-a title that meant more to Willie than any medal or accomplishment ever could. The lessons he taught through his example-how to work hard, love deeply, serve faithfully, and treat people with respect-will continue to guide his children, grandchildren, and generations to come.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Georgia L. Craft of Waldron; his son, Trey and Tammy Craft of Wheatland, Wyoming; his son, Kenneth and Linda Berry of Deweyville, Texas; his daughter, Cammie and Mack McBride of Lowell, Arkansas; his daughter, Sam and David Foshee of Kirbyville, Texas; 19 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren and Miss Priss his beloved 4 legged companion. He also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who were blessed to know a man whose life was measured not by what he owned, but by the love and kindness he freely gave.

He was welcomed into Heaven by his first wife, Jackie Craft.

The family will host a come and go memorial beginning at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 11, 2026 at the home of the Craft family in Waldron, Arkansas.

Although Willie has laid down the burdens of this life, the memories he created, the lives he touched, and the love he shared will remain forever. His family will miss his laugh, his wisdom, his stories, and his quiet presence, but they will carry him with them every day. The world is a little better because Willie Craft was in it, and those who loved him are better because they had the privilege of calling him husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and hero.