James Thomas Craven

James Thomas Craven obituary, Avondale, AZ

James Thomas Craven

James Craven Obituary

Visit the Avenidas Funeral Chapel - Avondale website to view the full obituary.

James Thomas Craven passed away on 02 August 2025 of cancer linked to agent orange exposure in Buckeye, Arizona.

James was born March 12, 1945, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Walter and Linda Craven.

He was raised on the East Coast on butter, pickles, and Jewish delis. He joined the Navy and served for 25 years, sailing around the world. He served in the Vietnam War. After his service, he worked in the hospitality industry prior to retiring. He dabbled in building model LSTs. His hobbies include gardening and annoying his wife. He (possibly) single handedly kept the Buckeye Dunkin Donuts in business with his daily visits.

James was preceded in death by his son, James Thomas Craven Jr. James is survived by his wife Debra; his daughters Heather, Alaina, and Brenna; and his 9 beautiful grandchildren.

James will be follow in the long standing tradition of the true mariner that he was and will be buried at sea joining those shipmates that preceded him, where he will continue his sailing and journey through eternity.

Cards, food, and love can be mailed to his beautiful wife Debra.

Memorial services are not set yet.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Avenidas Funeral Chapel - Avondale

522 East Western Avenue, Avondale, AZ 85323

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