Craig married the love of his life, Brenda (Lytle) Smith, on October 22, 1983. Together, they raised two children and built a life centered around family, faith, and hard work. Craig was a devoted husband, father, and ''Pappy.'' He cherished his family deeply and was, above all else, a true family man.
Craig took great pride in his children and was always there to support them. He was a proud baseball dad to Travis and was equally supportive of Shannon, taking on the role of a dance dad. As his children grew, he continued to encourage and support them in every way. In 2019, Craig became ''Pappy'' to his beloved grandson, Merritt, a title he cherished deeply.
Craig graduated from Greenville High School in 1978 and began a 35-year career at L-3 in Greenville retiring in August 2022.
Craig had a heart for serving others, whether through volunteering with the Cash Volunteer Fire Department, donating numerous gallons of blood over the years, serving on the Security Team at his church, or honoring his final wishes by becoming an organ donor. If someone needed him, he was there to help. A hard worker and natural craftsman, he had a gift for solving problems and believed there was nothing he couldn't learn to build, repair, or figure out. He never needed recognition for the things he did for others. Helping was simply part of who he was.
Following a family tradition that began with his grandfather, Lucian Harbuck, and his father, Charles Smith, Craig became a third-generation Freemason in 2014. His commitment to the Greenville Masonic Lodge #335 became an important part of his later years, where he generously gave his time, talents, and mentorship to others. He served as a Worshipful Master from 2018-2020 and District Communications Officer for District 8 from 2021-2022 and District Deputy Grand Master for District 8 from 2024-2025. He was very instrumental in helping build and design the new Masonic Temple in Greenville which was completed in 2024. He was honored with both the 'I Am My Brother's Keeper' Award in 2019 and the 'Golden Trowel' Award in 2024 for his service and dedication. He also joined three Masonic Appendant bodies which were Chapter and Council in 2025 and just recently joined Commandery which includes the Knights Templar in 2026.
Craig was a man of many hobbies. He loved the Dallas Stars, riding motorcycles, and animals of all kinds, even befriending the squirrels in his backyard. He could often be found on the patio enjoying the outdoors and watching the birds visit his many bird feeders (especially hummingbirds!). He loved to read, was an aspiring pitmaster, a train and aviation enthusiast, racing of all kinds, and enjoyed working with his hands. He especially enjoyed traveling with Brenda and his family to the mountains or the beach, making memories along the way.
Anyone who knew Craig will probably remember him best for his sense of humor. He was the comedian in the family, and those who spent time with him were guaranteed to laugh and genuinely enjoy his company. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. His legacy will live on through the family he cherished, the people he helped, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness and willingness to serve.
Craig is survived by his beloved wife, Brenda; his son, Travis Smith of North Richland Hills; his daughter and son-in-law, Shannon and Nathan Pope of Carrollton; his grandson, Merritt Smith; his brother and sister-in-law, Charley and Beth Smith of Cleveland, TX; and his father-in-law and mother in-law, Hubert and Phyllis Lytle of Greenville. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Dolores Smith.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the American Diabetes Association in Craig's memory.
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