Craig Lemar Davis

Craig Lemar Davis, age 65, of Morganton, NC passed away on July 25, 2025 surrounded by family and friends after a courageous battle with cancer. Craig was preceded in death by his parents, JB Davis and Roxie Geraldine Dockery Davis, and two brothers, Roger Davis and Johnny Davis. Left to cherish his memory are his loving sisters Billie Rizkallah (George) and Marilyn Cantrell (Donald) all of Shelby, his nieces and nephews, and numerous friends all over the country but especially Tim Palmer and Stephen Cooper. Craig held the highest love for his dogs: Josie, Daisy, Dudley, Lily and especially Rosie.

Falling in love with theatre under the direction of Nancy Weems and Richard Dedmon at Shelby High School (Class of 1978), Craig headed to California at the age of 18 to attend UCLA for two years taking acting courses and then continued his studies at HB Studio in New York. He performed for twelve years in 28 states in numerous plays and musicals, notably in the outdoor drama Tecumseh in Chillothe, OH and at the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre in Lancaster, PA. In 1988, Craig and fellow actor W. Scott Warfel founded First Stage Theatre Productions which focused on shows with and for young people. Craig devoted all his talents and energy to and counted his time with First Stage as the most important work of his life. In 1998, Craig and Scott presented their original musical comedy, A Connecticut Yankee, in an Off-Broadway showcase at the Judith Anderson Theatre in New York. In 2001, Craig became the published author of his book The Christmas Barn, a lovely story based on the life of his mother who grew up in the Appalachian mountains. Next, Craig earned a degree in TV and Production Technology, completed a program in upholstery, and performed in the Greater Shelby Community Theatre. For the last ten years of his life, Craig was dedicated to his occupation as a specialized digitizer at Arhaus Furniture in Conover where he became part of a work family that he dearly cherished.

Craig touched many lives throughout his years and leaves a legacy of love. His jovial heart, wit, intellect, and pure talent will forever be remembered by those who knew this irreplaceable, remarkable man.

A graveside service will be held at Cleveland Memorial Park in Shelby on Tuesday, July 29th at 10:00 AM and those in attendance, per Craig’s wishes, are to dress comfortably. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Shelby High School at 230 E. Dixon Blvd, Shelby NC 28150. Mark the contribution as the Craig Davis Theatre Scholarship Fund.