Rita Marie Craig

Rita Marie Craig, beloved wife, mother, Nana, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on May 14, 2025, in Springfield, Missouri, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on October 9, 1959, in Urbana, Illinois, to James and Patricia Bradley. Her warmth, generosity, and vibrant spirit left a lasting impact on all who had the joy of knowing her.
Rita shared more than 30 years with the love of her life, David Craig. They were married on June 21, 2003, and together they made countless cherished memories floating on the river, fishing, camping, and simply enjoying each other's company. Their bond was strong and full of shared adventures, laughter, and quiet joys.
She was a devoted mother to Matthew Hoss, his wife Alicia, and to Michael Hoss. She was a proud and loving Nana to five treasured grandchildren: Mark Hoss (18), Jamaya Hoss (15), Jayceon Hoss (11), Emory Hoss (7), and Broderick Hoss (5), and a cherished great-grandmother to her sweet great-grandson, Raheem. Nothing brought her more joy than spending time with her grandchildren-singing and dancing with them, playing instruments, laughing together in the yard, and creating special moments they will always remember. She is also survived by her stepson, Benjamin Craig, and his wife, Sarah.
Rita had a deep bond with her sister, Rhonda Bradley. The two shared not only a family connection, but a lifelong friendship full of love, laughter, and mutual support. She found happiness in life's simple pleasures-bird watching, listening to music of all kinds, and relaxing on the beach during family vacations to Florida. She had a big heart for animals as well and lovingly provided a home for a couple of rescue dogs over the years, giving them the safe, happy lives they deserved. For 23 years, Rita was a dedicated and respected Service Analyst at Connelly-Waldinger. Her coworkers admired her strong work ethic, reliability, and compassionate spirit, which left a meaningful and lasting impression.
Rita was preceded in death by her mother, Patricia Bradley; father, James Bradley; her stepmother of 26 years, Yoko Bradley; and her grandparents, Dorothea De Boer, John De Boer, and Catherine Bradley.
Above all, Rita lived a life centered around love-love for her family, her friends, her work, her pets, and the world around her. She gave selflessly, loved unconditionally, and always put others before herself. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone she touched. Rita will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A visitation will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 pm, at Greenlawn Funeral Home North in Springfield. Rita's funeral service will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, 10:00 am, at Greenlawn Funeral Home North. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers and plants, contributions can be made in Rita's memory to Disabled American Veterans (2525 E Division St Springfield, MO 65803 417-862-3910).
Arrangements are under the compassionate direction of Greenlawn Funeral Home North in Springfield, Missouri.