Craig Ferrier

-Lovingly written by the family-
It is with deep sorrow yet with profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Craig Ferrier on October 6, 2025. He was born in Joplin, Missouri on September 25, 1953. Craig was the beloved son of Gordon (Sonny) and June Smith. "Craig-o" was a witty and a larger-than-life character that never met a stranger and encouraged laughter and joy in every room he entered.
Craig worked in the trucking industry through the '70s and '80s which included everything from driving over the road, to dispatch, and then onto setting up fuel networks. His outgoing personality and self-described "gift of gab" led him to an accomplished career working in sales for the Pilot Corporation, earning him the accolade of Fuel Sales Manager of the Year in the early '90s. Despite a successful career, Craig's true passions laid outside of the office. Craig loved going fast, no matter if he was racing his Maico dirt bike in motocross, going dirt track racing with his friends, or even going wide open in his bass boat on Grand Lake. He enjoyed vintage drag racing the most and loved showing off his 1951 Chevy Business Coupe, "Risky Business", that he and his son built. Craig always had a smile on his face when he was fishing and also when he would reminisce about his hunting pals in Kansas and their many adventures. Craig found great joy in sports, specifically football and golf, and had a special love for 8-Ball pool. Craig's hobbies and interests were a testament to his adventurous spirit and his unwavering love for life. Craig held a profound sense of duty and commitment to his community and fellow man. He was raised a Master Mason at Joplin Lodge #335, was a 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, a Knights Templar in the York Rite, and a member of Abou Ben Adhem Shrine.
Above all, Craig cherished the connections he fostered with his family and friends. In his later years, his love for his grandchildren was the cornerstone of his existence. His memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who loved him.
Craig is survived by his son, Ryan (Jacki) Ferrier, a daughter, Kimberly (Erik) Dillow Ferrier, three grandsons Maddox, Aiden, Elias, and a granddaughter, Eden; his siblings, Beth (Mark) Land, Thomas (Gwen) Smith, Donna (James) Johnson and Sonja Copeland-Smith, Craig will be greatly missed by his many nieces, nephews and friends. Craig is preceded in death by his parents, Gordon (Sonny) Smith, June Smith, his brother Stephen Ferrier, sister Marsha Ferrier Wood, and the love of his life and mother of his children, Wanda.
In celebration of Craig's life, we invite you to share your memories and upload photos on his memorial page. Let's come together to remember a man who lived life to the fullest, embraced every moment, and left an indelible mark on our lives.