Ray L Craig

Ray Lynn Craig, 77, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 16, 2026 surrounded by his family. Ray was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His family was the center of his life, and he was happiest when surrounded by those he loved.

Ray was born on September 9, 1948, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Leslie Howard Craig and Arleen Mary Molyneaux Craig. He was their 3rd child, born on the birthday of his older sister Wilma, who passed away from drowning just 15 weeks prior.

As a young man, Ray served his country in the Vietnam War as a mortarman, Sergeant and Squad Leader in the 11th Light Infantry Brigade. He led foot patrols through dense jungles, managed fire and movement during unexpected ambushes, led his men's placement, and was directly responsible for the daily survival, discipline, and welfare of his soldiers. He was awarded medals for bravery, courage, and honorable service. After his active duty in the military, he later joined and worked as a technician in the Utah National Guard.

Ray had passion for cars and enjoyed spending time restoring, admiring, and talking about them. Cars were always a big part of his life from the time he worked as a youth at his Dad’s service station.

He and his siblings drove early in their youth when the area around their home was very rural and before their legal driving age. Ray bought a new car nearly every year after returning from Vietnam until he got married. In later life he attempted to find the smooth and comfortable luxury car ride like those heavy luxury cars of the past.

Ray married the love of his life Katherine (Kathy) Ann Freasier on June 13th, 1977, She tenderly cared for him through his horrible mental and physical decline brought on by Alzheimer's until his final days. Together Ray and Kathy raised four children and enjoyed every second of 50 amazing years.

Ray is preceded in death by his parents Leslie and Arleen, his grandson, Lance Craig; his sister, Wilma Craig; and his brothers, Lawrence Howard “Dick” (Sherril Craig) and Ronald Delayne Craig.

He is survived by his loving wife Kathy, and their four children; Donald Ray Craig (Amie), Marleena Christine Craig, Leslie Katherine Craig (Israel), and Patrick John Craig (Jeannie). He also leaves behind 9 grandchildren; Dallas, Kalista, Gabriel, Damien, Deziraye, Linkin, Marcela, Jameson and Jaxon. 3 great-grandchildren; Zamari, Elijah and Nyeli. All of whom he loved dearly.

He is also survived by five siblings: Carla Ball, Sandra Ralston, Bruce Craig, Delwin Craig (Teresa) and Darwin Craig.

Ray will be remembered for his strength, his love for his family, and his quiet courage and the kindness he showed to others. He is deeply missed. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. When we remember Ray, we won't remember Alzheimer's. We will remember his laughter, his strength, his stories, his love, and the way he always showed up for his family. We will miss him more than words can say, but we will carry his love with us every day.

Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of life for Ray that will be held at 11:00 am on August 22, 2026, at the American Legion, located at 320 East 3900 South Millcreek, Utah. Food will be served and refreshments available. Our family thanks those who lovingly provided care for Ray and our family. Their service is very much appreciated, especially those who silently served!