Craig Carbery

Stuart Craig Carbery, 75, Lake of the Forest, KS, died peacefully surrounded by loving friends on September 2, 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer. Craig was born on October 12, 1949 to Charles William and Elizabeth Clevenger Carbery at Lawrence Memorial Hospital in Lawrence, KS. The Carberys moved to Lake of the Forest in 1951, and Craig spent the majority of his life living in a place that he truly loved!
Craig graduated from Bonner Springs High School in 1967. He attended Westminster College in Fulton, MO where he was a member of The Sigma Chi Fraternity. He also studied photography at The University of Kansas. Craig's career began as a photographer's assistant. He was skilled and very comfortable in a dark room, working at Macy's downtown for many years in their advertising department. Craig later worked at the Bonner Springs Public Library where he loved working with children. Prior to his retirement, Craig was beloved by students and colleagues in the Bonner Springs Public Schools where he excelled as a paraprofessional in a special needs classroom.
Known for his creative spirit, Craig inspired young and old alike with his infectious smile, warm manner and kind eyes. Craig played drums in many bands over the years. He loved the Rolling Stones, and he enjoyed looking a bit like Keith Richards. As a life-long photographer, he delighted in sharing his work in small exhibitions.
Craig loved music, sailing, golf, art, his Triumph Bonneville and his dog Pip. He was a true "motorhead" and the owner of many vintage automobiles in his life, including his beloved "Flying Dog Ranch" red pick-up truck. Craig served on the Bonner Springs Public Library Board and the Vestry at St. Martin-in-the Field Church.
As one admirer put it: "A flamboyant straight man in every sense, Craig lived out loud and unapologetically as himself. But more than the way he dressed or carried himself, it was the way he loved that made him unforgettable. He loved big, without hesitation, without condition, and with a heart that had room for everyone lucky enough to know him. His life was proof that authenticity and compassion can walk hand in hand and that to love boldly is the most enduring legacy of all." Indeed, a man's true wealth is measured by the friends he leaves behind-and Craig departed this world a wealthy man.
Craig was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Elizabeth Carbery. He leaves behind his sisters Constance "Mimi" Carbery Guste; Suzanne Carbery (John Rogers Bricker); nephew Jonathan Emery (Vanna); and nieces Elizabeth Gaucher (Philip) and Kathryn McGrath (Sean). Two grandnephews: Arthur and Pierce Emery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Lake of the Forest Historic Preservation Society, Inc. P.O. Box 532 Lake of the Forest Bonner Springs, KS 66012.
A Celebration of Craig's Life will be held at 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 12 (his 76th birthday) at St. Martin-in-the-Field Church, 1501 Edwardsville Drive, Edwardsville, KS with a reception following at the Lake of the Forest Club House.