Patsy Craig

Patsy Craig HERRIN - Patsy LaRue Craig, 82, went home to be with Jesus on Monday, May 17, 2010, in Herrin Hospital. Patsy was born to Phillip and Mary Louise (Sparks) Cripps on April 29, 1928, but was raised by her grandmother and grandfather, Carrie (Burns) and Phillip "Pa" Cripps, due to the death of her mother. On Feb. 24, 1946, she married her childhood sweetheart, Bob L. Craig of Herrin. They celebrated 64 years of marriage this year. Patsy was a very spiritual person, although a member of the First Baptist Church of Herrin, she gave a lot to many other religious organizations. Patsy worked for Stotlar Lumber for many years, owned and operated Craig's Beauty Supply and Craig's laundry mats, both in Herrin. She spent most of her time with the things she dearly loved, her husband Bob, playing the organ, dancing, playing cards with her friends, and working for the Democrat party. She was a very proud member of the Democratic National Committee and a member of the VFW Post 1567 Ladies Auxiliary. Patsy is survived by her husband, Bob L. Craig of Herrin; two children, Robert Craig and wife "Pat's special angel" Vicki of Herrin, Kathy Shelton and husband Ron of Tampa, Fla.; four grandchildren, Ryan Craig and wife Michelle of South Bend, Ind., Rebecca Herrman and husband Andy of Mishawaka, Ind., Derrick Shelton and wife Allison of Tampa, Fla., Craig Shelton and wife Hillary of Gurnee; several great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins; and friend and ex daughter-in-law, Debbie Calcaterra. She was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; and friend and sister-in-law, Roberta Denham. The family would like to especially thank niece, Janet Carlton and husband Jim of Jacksonville; cousin, Carolyn Sue Burke and husband Jack of Belleville; and the wonderful nurses, CNAs and staff on the east wing of Herrin Hospital for all the living care, support, kindness and most of all the time spent with her in her final days. A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 20, 2010, in Van Natta Funeral Home in Herrin, with the Rev. Donny Colson officiating. A prayer service will follow at Herrin City Cemetery, given by cousin, the Rev. Jack R. Hall.