Willie "Bill" Eugene Craven Sr.

Willie "Bill" Eugene Craven Sr. was born in Baxley, Georgia, and grew up on a farm eleven miles south of Hazelhurst, Georgia. He spent his formative years working the cane and tobacco fields while riding on his family’s horse “Ole Dan.” He later moved with his family to Warner Robins in October of 1951. Bill passed away on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at the age of 87.

Always up for an adventure, Bill signed up for the United States Navy on August 19th, 1954. He was assigned to the All Weather Fighter Squadron 3, U.S. Naval Station, North Island, San Diego, California, and served aboard the U.S.S. Constellation. During his service, he earned two Chief Of Naval Operations Safety Awards, the James Forrestal Memorial Trophy, the United States Defense "A" Awards, and was authorized to wear the Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon.

After his military service, Bill worked for a contractor at Robins Air Force Base, driving the distinguished Air Force Band to all stateside performances. With a sense of humor, he was known for telling jokes and was a practical joker. Above all, Bill adored spending time with his family. He dearly loved his late wife, Sharon Mae Craven, to whom he was married for 41 years.

In addition to his beloved wife, Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Benjamin Craven and Lottie V. Spell Craven, his daughter, Kimberly Kae Samuels, and his siblings, Nellie Victoria C. Jones, Deana C. Weelborg,and Bennie Lott Craven.

Bill is survived by his son, Christopher Patrick Craven, his daughter-in-law, Shanda Raye Craven, and his grandchildren, Michael Craven, Sarah Craven, and Alex Trotter. He is also survived by his sister, Brownie Lee C. Bettinger, and his brother, Thomas Martin Craven.

A graveside funeral service honoring Bill’s life will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. in Magnolia Park Cemetery, where Bill will be laid to rest.  

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family.  McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.