Lily Lou Craig

Our beloved mother and grandmother, Lily Lou Craig, age 79 years, of Goreville, Illinois, gained her heavenly home Tuesday afternoon, March 25, 2025, at 2:17 P.M. at Hillview Senior Living and Rehabilitation in Vienna, Illinois. Lily was born January 18, 1946 in Herrin, Illinois. She was the daughter of Harold A. and Etta Mae (McMillian) Kelley. On August 23, 1963, Lily married the love of her life, Michael R. Craig. Together, they shared 52 years of marriage prior to his passing on July 17, 2015. Lily is survived by: her children – Gina (Terry) Phalin of Goreville, Illinois and David Craig of Trenton, New Jersey; 4 grandchildren – Charity (Evan) Lewis, Caleb Phalin, Elisha Craig, and Kelli Smith; 7 great grandchildren – Karsen Worthen, Leighton Phalin, Deacon Phalin, Gibson Phalin, Brennan Lewis, Rae Leigh Smith, and Zena Smith; 2 sisters – Nina (Kenny) Graul and Roberta (Charles) Goodman all of Marion, Illinois; 2 sisters-in-law – Brenda Kelley of Marion, Illinois and Sandy (Tom) Lively of Goreville, Illinois; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to her parents and husband, Lily was preceded in death by: 3 brothers – Harold Kelley, Jr., Raymond Kelley, and Guy “Butch” Kelley; and a 3 year old sister – Terrill Ann Kelley. In their early years, Mike and Lily enjoyed camping and attending church camp meetings. She was a former Kentucky State black powder shooting champion. Lily worked as a seamstress for several years. In 2012, she retired from the Choate Mental Health facility in Anna, where she was employed as a mental health technician. She was known for her boundless love, especially for her children and grandchildren, whom she cherished will all her heart and was so very proud of. She enjoyed vacationing with her family, attending events with her grandchildren, and collecting angel figurines. Lily leaves behind a legacy of laughter, generosity, and unwavering support. She was a member of the First Pentecostal Church in Goreville. A service honoring the life of Lily Lou Craig will be conducted Friday afternoon, March 28, 2025, at 12 noon at the First Pentecostal Church, 915 Broadway, Goreville, Illinois. Pastor Kevin Cox will officiate. Burial will be in the Busby Chapel Cemetery, south of Goreville. Visitation will be held Friday, March 28, 2025, from 10 A.M. until the funeral hour at 12 Noon at the First Pentecostal Church. Memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Lily Lou Craig

January 18, 1946 - March 25, 2025