Homer H. McCraw Sr.

1920 - 2019

Age 98, made his peaceful transition on Friday March 8, 2019. Homer McCraw Sr. was born in Oakman, Alabama (Walker County) to the late Mr. and Mrs. Isaac McCraw on August 11, 1920. He served in World War II in the European Theatre participating in some of the most documented engagements to include D-Day, "Battle of Bulge" as staff sergeant and platoon leader in the 3393 Quartermaster Truck Company. The Company was a component of the acclaimed predominantly-black unit , named Red Ball Express for their unique, yet effective, truck convoy system responsible for transporting fuel, ammunition, food, clothes and other critical supplies throughout the US Third Army. Staff Sergeant McCraw was a multiple awarded non-commissioned officer; receiving the Silver Star, the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart during his military service. Upon his return to Huntsville Mr. McCraw enrolled in Alabama A&M College and received a Bachelor of Arts in agricultural education. He taught veterans in Madison County for several years, he became principal of Farmers' Capital School, now known a Lynn Fanning Elementary School for 28 years. An influential community leader and educator he was a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., active member of the Kiwanis Club, and served as President, Trustee Board of St. John AME Church for several years and other roles within the church. He is survived by his beloved and extremely devoted wife of 75 years Hodie Lanier McCraw, and their children Misshearl Denise McCraw, Dana McCraw Johnson (Dr. James R. Johnson) and Homer H. McCraw Jr. (Isabella) and a host of relatives and friends. Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 14, 2019, 6 – 8 p.m. at Nelms Memorial Funeral Home, 2901 Carmichael Avenue NW, Huntsville, Alabama 35816. Funeral service will be held on Friday, March 15, 2019, 12 p.m. at St. John AME Church, 229 Church Street, Huntsville, Alabama 35801.