Obituary - James Richard Craig Jr.

CRAIG, James Richard “Rick,” Jr. of Henrico, Virginia passed away after a brief illness on March 28, 2023 at the age of 75. He was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Suzanne Bynum Craig, father, James “Jim” R. Craig, Sr. and mother, Geraldine “Gerry” H. Craig. Rick is survived by his only daughter, Amanda Lee Craig of Henrico, whom he adored. He was a devoted father and husband and cared deeply for his wife and daughter. He was a gentle giant in the eyes of his family and friends. He put on a gruff exterior but inside he had a very generous and loving heart which he shared willingly with those he loved.

In 1966, Rick followed in the steps of his father and joined the U. S Army. He was on active duty until July of 1969. He served in the First Infantry Division Artillery in Vietnam from June of 1967 to April of 1968. His awards included the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal. Rick was most proud of his service during the Vietnam War and he was often seen wearing his favorite “Vietnam Vet” ball cap with his Army affiliation clearly identified.

Following his honorable discharge, Rick enjoyed a long and loyal career as a production manager with Philip Morris in Richmond. As a tobacconist he developed a taste for expensive cigars. He smoked only one per day but he always kept a spare and was always willing to share if he met a fellow vet who enjoyed the habit. His hobbies included golfing at River’s Bend where he earned the nick name “Killer” for his phenomenal long drives (“kill shots”) off the tee-box. He shot two holes-in-one at River’s Bend, one was a 164 yard drive with a Three Iron. For many years, Rick enjoyed semi-annual vacations to Nag’s Head with his wife and daughter and friends. His vacations were always open to his extended family and he spent hours on the beach surf-fishing with his father.

Other survivors include 4 siblings, Michael Craig (Patsy) of Ruckersville, Judy Roseborough (Morgan) of Durham, Marie Meadows of Chesterfield, and Penny Pickel (John) of Norfolk, and 8 nieces and nephews and their children, Cynthia Morris (Danny), Christopher Craig (Julia), James Pickel, Elena Pickel, Avery Morris, Regan Morris, Lillian Craig, and Parker Craig.

Arrangements are being handled by Nelsen Funeral Home. The family will receive friends Thursday, April 6 from 12-2 pm at Nelsen Funeral Home, 4650 S. Laburnum Ave., Henrico, VA. A graveside service will be held at 3 pm at Washington Memorial Park Cemetery, 6217 Memorial Dr., Sandston, VA.

The family welcomes flowers or memorial contributions to Rick’s favorite charity, Wounded Warrior Project.