Larry Lee Craig

Larry L. Craig was born October 30, 1936 in Dodge City, Kansas. He was raised in Garden City, Kansas and graduated high school in 1954. He attended Garden City Community College and the University of Kansas. He served in the United States Air Force from 1957-1959. Immediately after, he married his beloved wife Alice and started his career with the Federal Aviation Agency as an air traffic controller trainee in Spokane, WA. In 1962 he transferred to Riverside, CA as a journeyman controller and later as a first-line supervisor. In 1968 he transferred to FAA Headquarters in Washington, DC and was an equipment planner. Two years later he became special assistant to the Director of Air Traffic and in 1972 was reassigned to the deputy manager position at the soon to be opened new Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport. In 1975 he became the manager of the Lubbock Air Traffic Control Tower which also provided services for Reese AFB. Larry later moved to the FAA Southwest Region Headquarters in Ft. Worth where he moved through 4 different positions ending up as Manager of Air Traffic Control for the Southwest part of the country. He invested himself in helping his employees achieve success in their careers as well as their lives. He earned the respect of all who crossed his path during his career. He retired in 1994 to Lubbock to be close to his daughters and grandchildren. He was an avid supporter and fan at all of their sporting events, keeping their stats and giving encouragement. Larry was one of the founding members of Holy Spirit Catholic Church. He was very involved in the planning, construction and operation of the building. He was recognized by Pope Benedict for his years of service. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels for many years and with Catholic Charities for over 20 years. One of his hobbies was woodworking and he made numerous items for the church. He was a humble man with a quiet, gentle spirit who strived for excellence in all he did. His family and friends benefited from his servant's heart-he truly knew something about everything and he used his abilities to bless others. Survivors include his wife Alice of 64 years, daughters Joanna (Kenny) Smith, Karen (David) Gregory and Lisa (David) Ewald, 7 grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, 8 great step-grandchildren and sister Judith Ackley. He is preceded in death by his parents Lowell and Grace Craig, sister Diana Harms, brother Steve Craig and beloved daughter Rhonda Sue Craig. The family suggests memorials to Catholic Charities and Lubbock Meals on Wheels. Viewing and Family Visitation will be held Friday, June 10 at 9:00am at Holy Spirit Catholic Church followed by a Celebration of Life Mass at 10:00am. Burial will follow at Peaceful Gardens Cemetery.

Larry Lee Craig

October 30, 1936 - June 5, 2022