Royce Leon Craig, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on December 11, 2023 at the age of 76. Born on July 4, 1947 in Roswell, NM, to Kenneth Leon Craig and Nellie Louise Schoolcraft, Royce was raised in Gallup, NM and made his home in Southwest Washington for the past 50 years.
Royce was an alumnus of Eastern New Mexico University, the University of Texas at El Paso, and Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary. He was a teacher of physical science, a Southern Baptist pastor, a certified motorcycle mechanic and a chemical engineer in the lumber industry for many years in the Pacific Northwest.
Royce’s faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life, and he was a spiritual leader for many people. He loved memorizing scripture, was active in his church and especially enjoyed the fellowship of the men’s group. An avid bird watcher and photographer, he often contributed to the local Audubon newsletter and website, and he kept an impressive Purple Martin colony.
Royce was an avid golfer and a motocross enthusiast. He enjoyed playing the guitar, fishing, gardening, landscaping, and carpentry. He made custom golf clubs in his spare time and could often be found in his shop immersed in a new project. He and Beth spent many years working on renovating and remodeling their own home as well as other homes they owned. When Royce wasn’t perfecting his golf swing, he could be found pursuing a number of other hobbies including wood carving, flint knapping, knife crafting, and rattlesnake hunting during a number of trips back home to his native New Mexico.
Royce had a respect and appreciation for nature and a genuine concern for people and their walk with God. He had a positive disposition, an unforgettable laugh, and a genuine warmth that made him a joy to be around. Any attempt to describe Royce’s interests and accomplishments are understatements. Those who knew him understood that he put his whole heart into everything he did, while prioritizing people above all.
Royce is survived by his beloved wife, Beth Femrite Craig, brothers Kenneth Craig of Gallup, NM, Leslie Craig of San Diego, CA and Jack Craig of Clatskanie, OR. He also leaves behind six children, Kenneth Craig of Homosassa, FL, Carrie Craig Anderson of Buckatunna, MS, Andria Montgomery of Kelso, WA, Todd McCall of Kelso, WA, Marla McCall of Payette, ID, Lisa Roseberry of Vancouver, WA; a beloved uncle, Fred Schoolcraft of Junction, TX, as well as a number of nieces and nephews, 27 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.
