Donnie Alvin Crafton

Donnie Alvin Crafton, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on September 13, 2025, in Jonesboro, Arkansas, at the age of 79. Born on August 21, 1946, in Paragould, Arkansas, to Alvin and Edith Alene Crafton, Donnie's life was one of dedication, love, and spirited enthusiasm for the joys of living. Donnie was drafted and served bravely in the United States Army. He served overseas in Germany and in the Vietnam War. Donnie's journey through life was shared with his beloved wife of 48 years, Patricia Crafton, who stood by him as a pillar of support and love. Together, they built a family that included his son, Rusty Crafton (Andrea) and step-children, Michelle Miles (Keith), Charles Skinner, and David Skinner (Jane). Donnie was a loving brother to Kenny Crafton (Lisa). He was a proud grandfather to Crew and Jax Crafton, and a fond uncle to several nieces and nephews. Donnie was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Judy Clark, Betty Dearing, Terry Crafton, and Marty Crafton; and step-children, Suzanne Brown Farris and Michael Skinner. For years, Donnie served as a supervisor at Darling, where his strong work ethic and leadership were valued by his colleagues. Beyond his professional life, he was deeply involved in his community and enjoyed the camaraderie and connections he made through various associations with his son Rusty's basketball, baseball, and football teams Donnie's love for sports was a defining feature of his life. As a young man, he showcased his talent on the baseball field and was one game away from going to the Little League World Series when he was 12 years old. Donnie was an avid sportsman who relished watching any game that caught his eye, especially football. Whether it was shooting pool or bowling on a league with friends or cheering from the sidelines his passion for sports never waned. One of Donnie's greatest joys was following his son and grandsons, Crew and Jax in their sporting endeavors, never missing a chance to be their biggest fan. His love for fishing, shared with his good friend Donnie Ewing, provided him with many peaceful moments and triumphant catches that he would recount when sharing his long-winded fish stories. Competitive card games, cook outs, and fish fry's were favorite pastimes with family. These gatherings, often with his siblings, were filled with friendly rivalry and a sense of togetherness that Donnie deeply cherished. A graveside service with military honors will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 19, at Greene County Memorial Gardens with Kenny Crafton officiating. To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.