Lowell Craig "Craig" Garner

Lowell Craig Garner, age 62, passed away in the comfort of his own home on Monday, August 4, 2025, in the arms of his loving wife Melissa with his long-term caregivers Madison and MeMe at his side.

Craig was preceded in death by his parents, L.C. "Dog" Garner and Mildred Carnes Garner.

He is survived by his loving wife, Melissa Lynn Garner; his children, whom he adored and who lovingly called him "Elsie", Holly Relfe (Andrew), Payton Callner (Drew), Brynne Garner (Alex Dobson), Cole Rickard, and Lee Rickard (Natalie); grandchildren, Wellington Relfe, Bennett Relfe, Mary Holland Relfe, and Barrett Callner. He is also survived by his sisters, Robyn Succup (David) and Melissa Dupont, as well as many other friends and relatives who simply adored him.

Craig grew up in Bessemer, Alabama, attending preschool through high school graduation with the same close-knit group of friends. Craig was a Boy Scout, a graduate of Bessemer Academy, and a three-sport athlete - football, baseball, and basketball. Beloved by both students and faculty, Craig had a knack for charming his way into special privileges. He was known for his practical jokes, big stories, and a smile that could turn almost any situation in his favor - even earning a "B" on a test he missed while standing in line for the math teacher's car tag.

After high school, Craig attended the University of Montevallo, where he was a proud member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Business, which led to a successful career in sales. He later formed his own business, G&G Management, becoming a well-known recruiter for pulp and paper mills throughout the United States and Canada.

In 2014, Craig married his childhood sweetheart, Melissa. Together, they were active members of Metropolitan Church of God, singing in the choir, participating in Sunday School and small groups, visiting the elderly, and volunteering in the children's ministry.

Craig was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's at age 56, though symptoms had appeared earlier. Even so, he continued to make friends and inspire admiration everywhere he went. Always ready to lend a hand, his smile could light up a room and make everyone feel loved. Known as a gentle giant, Craig enjoyed traveling, walking, playing pickle ball, golfing, fishing, and cooking on his prized Big Green Egg.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, warmth, and kindness that will never be forgotten.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Canvas Church in Hoover, Alabama. A visitation will be held at 2:00 p.m. and a service to follow at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Anchor Ministry at Asbury Methodist Church, Birmingham, Alabama - a vital ministry for those suffering from dementia and a respite for their families.

Heaven is now his home.

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." - Romans 15:13