Goreville- Michael Ray “Mickey” Craig, 71, of Goreville, passed away at 4:37 PM, Friday, July 17, 2015 at Heartland Regional Medical Center in Marion.
Michael was born on April 26, 1944 in Kankakee, IL to Omer Ray and Hazel Geneva (Perry) Craig. He married Lily L. Kelley on August 23, 1963 in Goreville. Together they shared almost 52 wonderful years of marriage. She survives of Goreville.
Michael retired as a Lieutenant and acting Captain from the Illinois Department of C...orrections in 2002 after having dedicated 29 1/2 years of service. He began his career at the Menard Correctional Center in Chester and worked there many years until he transitioned to the Shawnee Correctional Facility in 1986.
He was a member of the Lick Creek Pentecostal Church and the “Catfish Connection”. In his spare time, camping outdoors or travelling to gospel camp meetings. He was an avid fisherman who enjoyed bass fishing at Crab Orchard Lake or competing in area Bass Fishing Tournaments. He most enjoyed spending time with his great grandchildren and will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
Survivors include-
Wife- Lily Craig of Goreville
Daughter- Gina Phalin and husband Terry of Goreville
Son- David Craig of Tucson, AZ
Four grandchildren:
Charity Worthen and husband Paul of Goreville
Caleb Phalin and wife Sidney of Goreville
Elisha Craig of Anna
Kelli Craig of Anna
Two great grandchildren:
Karsen Worthen of Goreville
Leighton Phalin of Goreville
Sister- Sandy Lively and husband Tom of Goreville
Several nieces, nephews and cousins
He was preceded in death by his parents.
The funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, July 21, 2015 at Blue Funeral Home in Goreville. Rev. R.G. Null and Rev. Cecil Sullivan will officiate. Burial will follow at Busby Cemetery in Goreville. Visitation will be from 5-8:00 PM, Monday, July 20, 2015 at Blue Funeral Home in Goreville.
Memorial donations are suggested to Lick Creek Pentecostal Church and will be accepted at Blue Funeral Home in Goreville. For more information or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit
www.bluefuneralhome.com.