James F. Craver

James F. Craver, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025, at the C.W. Bill Young V.A. Hospice in St. Petersburg, Florida, after a courageous and extended battle with cancer. He was born on January 13, 1947, in Charlotte, North Carolina, to Robert North and Emma Louise (Douthit) Craver. He was 78 years old.

James was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Eleanor Watson, who he cherished throughout his life. He leaves behind a loving and devoted family: his wife, Laura, whom he married on October 24, 1987, at their home in Thonotosassa, Florida, and with whom he shared nearly 40 wonderful years of marriage; his sons, David of Rome, Georgia, and Mike Warner (Michelle) of St. Petersburg, Florida; as well as nine cherished grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He is also mourned by his lifelong friends, Gray Banks and Thomas Rodgers, who were like brothers to him.

James served honorably in the U.S. Marine Corps, a service that instilled in him a profound sense of duty and loyalty. After his military service, he dedicated many years to the Tampa Fire Department, where he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues and the community. Following his retirement from firefighting, he served as a park ranger at Tampa Palms, where he continued to share his love of nature and the outdoors with those around him.

Not only was James a dedicated public servant, but he was also an active member of his community. He was proud to be part of the American Legion Post 138, where he built friendships that lasted a lifetime. He believed in the importance of giving back and the bonds formed through shared experiences.

He was known for his warm smile, kind heart, and the ability to make anyone feel welcome and at ease. He had a remarkable way of bringing people together, and his family and friends will forever remember his ability to light up a room with his presence.

His funeral service will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Veterans Funeral Care, with a gathering of family and friends from 1:00 PM until service time at 2:00 PM, where all who knew and loved him are invited to celebrate his life and legacy.

Graveside services will be held Monday, October 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Florida National Cemetery with military honors.

James F. Craver leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering dedication to family, friends, and community. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and he will be remembered as a man who lived life to the fullest, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a laugh.