Jon L. Craig

1952 - 2023

BORN

1952

DIED

2023

About

University of California| Berkeley University of Virginia

Jon Craig Obituary

Jon Craig died on July 20, 2023 at his home in the Fan District of Richmond, VA where he spent the last years of his life. He fought a life-long battle against bipolar disorder.

He is survived by his father Dr. James W. Craig and stepmother Wendy J. Craig of Charlottesville, sister Maribeth Gibbon (Chris) of Cleveland, OH, brother William D. Craig (Michele) of Richmond, VA, step-brother Dr. Steven B. Johnson (Karen) of Scottsdale, AZ, step-sister Barbara J. Bennett (Clint) of Seattle, WA, step-brother Philip A. Johnson (Cathy) of Nassau Bay TX, and step-sister Laura E. Johnson (David) of Atlanta, GA. He was preceded in death by his mother Helen Lang Craig in 1962 and his sister Barbara C. Pool in 1997. Jon had many nieces and nephews who adored their Uncle Jon.

He was born on April 16, 1952 in Cleveland, OH, the first son and second child of James and Helen Craig. His education began in the public schools in Lyndhurst, OH and continued in the Shaker Heights, OH Public Schools after the death of his mother. Following high school graduation in 1970, he continued his education at the University of California, Berkeley where he earned Bachelor's and Law degrees and was editor of the Berkeley Law Review. After a short period in private practice, he entered the field of legal publishing which he pursued for many years. From then until his retirement, he worked at the University of Virginia Health Center in both the hospital and vice-president's office. During retirement, he volunteered with Legal Aid and helped children in need as a CASA advocate.

Jon was an active and passionate member of his local AA chapters for many years. He cared deeply about having a positive impact on people's lives and is credited with helping others with their sobriety.

He loved hiking, the outdoors, music, his extensive family and circle of friends. He was an avid fan of UVA baseball and women's basketball.

Jon was truly remarkable in his courageous battle with mental illness and addiction. If you or someone you know has thoughts of suicide, please call or text 988 to reach a 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Piedmont CASA, 818 High St., Charlottesville, VA 22902; AA Heart of Virginia District Intergroup Office, 1807 Emmet Street N, Suite 3-A, Charlottesville VA 2290; or to a charity of your choice.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Daily Progress on Aug. 5, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Jon Craig

9 Entries

Norm Vance

March 29, 2024

I was sorry to read that Jon had passed on. I have fond memories of him from Berkeley Law. We were probably the two shortest men in the class of '77 and thus had much in common. I think we had to find space for him in the house I rented with others during the blizzard of 1976, because the roads to where he was living were impassable. RIP Jon.

Brian Clarke

August 11, 2023

Seeing the news about Jon's passing in our high school class website today, I could not get past the image of the young man I last saw in June of '70, when we left Shaker High. He was whip-smart, had a great sense of humor, was always approachable and receptive to any and all. Reading about his struggle for decades with alcohol addiction and mental illness left me both incredibly sad and, most notably, in awe of the strength that he'd had to have had over those many years. The fact that he also found a way to help others with their own struggles will remain, for me, his enduring legacy. He "made a difference." RIP, Jon, and may your family find peace in your absence.

Diane Washington

August 10, 2023

I am sorry to hear of Jon's passing. I recall fondly working with Jon at the UVA Health System. I learned a lot from him. What an impressive background and beautiful life. Humble. Rest in peace Jon.
Diane Washington

Darrell Austin

August 7, 2023

Great memories of Jon and his family. We were next door neighbors in Shaker. God bless. Darrell Austin

Lisa Kimball

August 7, 2023

I remember Jon so well from meetings and running in to him around Charlottesville. A testament to what a person can do when challenged with metal health and addiction issues. I so remember his laugh and very funny, wicked sense of humor. All our jokes about the movie Fight Club. A sometimes shy and very fascinating, smart man. Much care & love to his family

Trish Cluff

August 7, 2023

I had the privilege of working with Jon at UVA. He was a kind and caring individual with a wonderful sense of humor. I was always impressed with his professionalism and patience during times of stress and difficulty. He leaves us with the gift of his friendship, but gone too soon.

Georgia Austin Murray

August 6, 2023

Jon was a kind and gentle soul. He was my next door neighbor growing up. I remember him helping me with my math homework. I am so sorry for your loss. Georgia Austin Murray

Evangeline (Vonnie) Calland

August 5, 2023

Jon and I worked together for many years within a group here in Charlottesville, and he became my trusted and cherished friend: a person I could really count on. I offer my sincere condolences to his dear family. He loved you all so much and spoke of you so warmly. I´m very grateful to have known Jon and laughed so much with him over the years, and I am deeply sad that I won´t see him again.

Sarabeth Whedbee

August 5, 2023

To Jon´s Family, I want you to know what a huge impact Jon made in the lives of so many in our C-ville community. I met him many years ago and enjoyed knowing him. He said many meaningful things to me over the years and brightened my days. . Thank you for posting about addiction and mental health.. it´s a long, hard road many of have and will travel. Sending love and deepest sympathy.

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