Harvey Wayne Craig

Harvey Wayne Craig went home to be with his Savior on Sunday, October 26, 2025, at his residence in Blanchard, Oklahoma, after a short but valiant battle with pancreatic cancer.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 48 years, Belinda Payne Craig, and their children, Tanya Craig of Noble, OK, and Matthew Craig and wife, Priscilla of Blanchard, OK.
Harvey was born on June 4, 1955, in Alexandria, Louisiana, and spent his early years in Louisiana, South Dakota, Connecticut, and Oklahoma as his parents, Billie Ann Blaisdell Craig and Oliver R. Criag, moved frequently due to Oliver's service in the U.S. Air Force. The family eventually settled in Midwest City, Oklahoma, following Oliver's retirement.
A 1973 graduate of Midwest City High School, Harvey joined the U.S. Navy through the Buddy Program alongside his longtime friend Jerry Hill, who traveled from South Carolina to be by Harvey's side during his final days. Harvey proudly served aboard the USS Nimitz, achieving the rank of Seaman Third Class.
After his Naval service, Harvey entered the food and beverage industry, where he worked as a chef, kitchen manager, and later Food Service Director for several Holiday Inns across Shawnee, Midwest City, Oklahoma City, Topeka, KS, and Hutchinson, KS. It was during his time at the Holiday Inn in 1976 that he met the love of his life, Belinda, and the two married in January of 1977.
Harvey later transitioned to public service and food service management in the field of corrections. First, Oklahoma Department of Corrections at JHCC, and then a brief return to Kansas at the Hutchinson correctional facility. In 1992, he returned to Oklahoma at Lexington Assessment and Reception Center (LARC) and was later promoted to Food Service Manager III at the LARC, where he transformed the kitchen into a model operation for correctional facilities across the state. Known for his fairness, attention to detail, and ability to create meals that uplifted morale, Harvey earned deep respect from both staff and inmates alike. He retired in January 2012 due to health issues but remained a trusted consultant, often called upon for his expertise and leadership. His absence was profoundly felt across the department.
Harvey's faith was the cornerstone of his life. Raised in the Baptist church in Alexandria, LA, he experienced a powerful renewal in 1988 after hearing Nick Harris teach at the First United Methodist Church of Oklahoma City. That encounter sparked a lifelong passion for studying the Word. Harvey's fondest church memory was holding his granddaughter, Hayley, during praise and worship. He later attended Ariel Chapel in Norman under Pastor Harris's teaching, and, after Pastor Harris's passing in 2020, Harvey and Belinda joined the Victory Family Church of Newcastle, where Pastor Matt Porter and the congregation became a vital source of love and support throughout his illness.
Beyond faith and family, Harvey's heart beat in crimson and cream. A lifelong Oklahoma Sooners football fan, he rarely missed a game, from his iconic tailgate parties, all decked out in OU gear, or celebrating a big win with family. Saturdays in the fall were sacred, filled with the sounds of the crowd, the smell from the tailgate, and Harvey's unmistakable enthusiasm echoing throughout. His passion for the Sooners reflected his own spirit: loyal, hopeful, and full of heart.
Harvey is survived by his loving wife, Belinda; their children, Tanya and Matthew; and grandchildren, Hayley Jade, Alexis Nicole, Penny Rose, Tristan Xavier, and Liam Dustin; as well as his great-granddaughter, Ivy Jayne, each of whom he loved fiercely and proudly. He is also survived by his father, Oliver Craig; brothers, Mark Craig and Allen Craig; and sisters, Denise Burkhammer and Pam Craig. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Carole Payne; sister-in-law, Melissa, and her husband, David; brother-in-law, Jeff Payne, and his wife, Tracy; and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom he loved dearly.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Billie Ann Craig (2011), and his baby brother, Carl Craig (1962).
Harvey's life was a testament to love, service, and steadfast faith. He will be remembered not only for his dedication to his family and work, but for his laughter, generosity, and unwavering belief that every day, win or lose, was a gift from God.