Kenneth Dan Craig

Funeral services for Kenneth Craig, 82, of Athens will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Hannigan Smith Funeral Home in Athens with Chaplain Alan Van Hooser officiating.

Kenneth Dan Craig, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025. Born on September 1, 1943, in Montfort, Texas, Kenneth was the son of Raymond Earl Craig and Viola Mae Herriage. He was one of seven children, sharing his childhood with three brothers and three sisters. Kenneth attended the Athens school district, where his athletic talent shone on the field. It was here that he earned the lifelong nickname "Froggy" from his many friends and teammates. More importantly, it was in school that he met the love of his life, Carolyn Ann Baker. They were married in 1961, beginning a partnership that would last over five decades and produce four loving children: Kenny, Sherri, Lisa, and Jennifer.

In his early adulthood, Kenneth owned local gas stations before finding his true passion in dirt work. He was known throughout the community as "Coach" for the countless hours he dedicated to coaching his own children, as well as many other local kids, in baseball and softball. His guidance and spirit shaped the lives of many young athletes. Later in life, Kenneth combined his professional skill with his family bond, working alongside his son, Kenny, in the dirt business for many years. He eventually retired after a tenure with Henderson County. Outside of his work and coaching, Kenneth had a wide range of talents and interests. He enjoyed playing golf and was a skilled woodworker. Musically gifted, he could play both the piano and guitar entirely by ear. His greatest joy, however, was his family. He was affectionately known as "Poppy" to his seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, who will cherish the memory of his love and silly nature.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law Richard Foster, and his loving wife Carolyn.

Survivors include his children, Kenny Craig of Athens, Sherri Foster of Athens, Lisa Craig of Athens and Jennifer Godwin and spouse Dusty of Athens; his grandchildren Amber Stockard and spouse Tommy, Brandi Craig, Marissa Hopper and spouse Ryan, Craig Ramsey, Trevor Ludtke and spouse Charlee, Karson Godwin and Kaegan Godwin; and his great grandchildren, Paisley Stockard, Brentlee Stockard, Gunner Stockard, Brooks Ramsey and Brody Ramsey. He also leaves behind his devoted canine companion and best furry friend, Gizmo. Serving as pallbearers will be Craig Ramsey, Trevor Ludtke, Karson Godwin, Kaegan Godwin, Tommy Stockard and Ryan Hopper. Honorary pallbearers will be Harvey Lynn Walker, Michael Crabtree, Ronnie Crabtree, Josh Baker, Russell Baker and Ricky Baker.

Kenneth Dan Craig's legacy is one of hard work, dedication to his family, and a lifelong commitment to his community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The family would like to give special thanks to Harbor Hospice for their loving care.

A visitation will be held prior to the service from 12-1:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at Hannigan Smith Funeral Home.