Daniel L. Craig

1965 - 2025

Daniel L. Craig

November 5, 1965 - April 8, 2025

Daniel Lee Craig, 59, of Summerfield, NC, passed away unexpectedly at home on April 8, 2025, surrounded by the immense love of his family. Born in Ashland, KY, on November 5, 1965, Daniel was the son of the late Jasie Barringer and the late Fred Craig. He is also survived by his brothers, Mark Craig, Rick Craig and Bernard DeGree and their extended families.

Daniel grew up in Greensboro, where he attended New Garden Friends School and Greensboro Day School before graduating from Rollins College in Florida. Even in his early years, his spark, humor, and unique perspective set him apart, traits that only grew stronger with time.

Known affectionately around town and online as "Merman Dan," Daniel lit up every space he entered with sequins, light-up shoes, and a one-liner always at the ready. A master of puns and king of dad jokes, he found joy in making others laugh and feel seen. But beyond the sparkle and humor, Daniel was a fiercely devoted husband and father. For nearly 33 years, he and his wife, Shelli, were constant companions, sharing adventures, dreams, and everyday life, side by side. Never has there been a love as deep as the love they shared.

He is survived by their eight amazing and deeply-loved children, Joshua Craig (31), Sarah Jane Craig (31), MacKenzie Craig (26), Jackson Craig (24), William Craig (23), Annabelle Craig (21), Emma Craig (21), and Julie Craig (21). Whether by birth or adoption, each child was his treasure, and he loved them with his whole wild, generous heart.

Daniel was part of his family's business, RH Barringer Distributing Co., Inc., but it was the life he built beyond work that truly defined him. He adored the Greensboro Science Center, especially the aquarium, and could often be found at events in full Merman attire, bringing joy and wonder to those around him.

He was looking forward to summers at the family's treasured home on a tiny island in the sound at the Outer Banks, swimming in the backyard pool he helped design, and hosting a whimsical convention for mermaids and mermen, his dream event called FinFaire. He had many online friends who treasured his kindness, inclusivity and his giving heart. He adored the friends he made in Florence, OR, on his trips to the Exploding Whale events where he shared his half-written musical called "Thar She Blows," about a famous 1970s event involving a beached whale and dynamite. His imagination and playful heart made everything feel possible. He was a constant source of humor and played tricks on everyone, hiding a skeleton in the pantry or a chimpanzee head in the bathroom. Life was never dull.

A celebration of Daniel's extraordinary life will be held at the Greensboro Science Center, on June 5, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the Greensboro Science Center, a place he loved deeply and supported joyfully.

"Daniel Craig was a true original, bright, mischievous, loving, and unforgettable. Though he left this world too soon, his magic, laughter, and love will echo through the lives of everyone who knew him, for always."

Forbis and Dick Guilford

5926 W. Friendly Ave. Greensboro, NC 27410