Hugh Craig Prevatte

1961 - 2025

Hugh Craig Prevatte, 63, of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2025. Known as Daddy, Papa, or simply Craig to those who loved him, he was a devoted father, a loving brother, and a loyal friend whose heart and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Craig was preceded in death by his parents, Hugh Gaston Prevatte and Grace Honeycutt Smyre. He is survived by his three daughters, Melissa Prevatte Favre (Jacob), Crystal Lynn Prevatte, and Amy Marie Prevatte; his sister, Danelle Prevatte Mills; his beloved grandson, Brayden Garrett Pearce; and his stepfather Glenn Smyre.

Craig lived his life with a spirit of generosity and a deep devotion to his family. He would drop everything in a moment's notice to help his daughters, family, or friends and strangers as well. He had a gentle way with animals and never lived a day of his adult life without a loyal pet by his side, whether it be a dog, a cat, or even a turtle.

A natural musician, Craig could play the piano and guitar entirely by ear. His voice, powerful and heartfelt, graced church services, weddings, funerals, and baseball games. Among the songs he shared with his daughters, favorites included God Bless the USA, Go Rest High on That Mountain, Day Star, Butterfly Kisses, and anything sung by Garth Brooks or the Gaither Vocal Band.

Craig loved his country deeply and took great pride in being an American and few could match his patriotic spirit.

In his later years, Craig found joy in simple pleasures walking his Golden Retrievers through downtown Wendell and stopping for a cider at a local bottle shop, where he would strike up a conversation with anyone nearby. To Craig, a stranger was just a friend he hadn't met yet.

A small graveside service for family and friends will be held on Friday, June 13th at 2 p.m. at Montlawn Funeral Home. Following the service, Craig's daughters will host a Celebration of Life at Carolina Brewing Company in Wendell at 4 p.m., where friends are welcome to stop by and raise a glass in his honor.

Craig's legacy is one of music, kindness, and unwavering love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue (https://www.goldenrescuenc.org/).