Pastor Danny E. Craig Sr.

Pastor Danny E. Craig, Sr., a devoted servant of God, dedicated community leader, and compassionate funeral director, was born on May 24, 1962, in Longview TX, to the late Lonnie Jr. & Willie Mae Hutchins Craig. He peacefully transitioned from this life on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Early Life and Education

Pastor Craig received his early education in Longview ISD, graduating in 1980 from Longview High School, and furthered his studies at Dallas Institute of Mortuary Science, where he graduated in 1981, and became the youngest licensed Funeral Director in the State of Texas.

Christian Experience and Ministry

Having accepted Christ at an early age, Pastor Craig united with the body of believers and answered the divine call to ministry at the age of 12. He faithfully served as Minister to the Union Church of Christ, Rollins Addition Church of Christ and was the current Pastor of Woodland Hill Church in Longview, Texas, where he ministered with passion, wisdom, and a deep love for God’s people.

Under his leadership, the church experienced spiritual growth and community transformation. His preaching was both powerful and practical, always pointing souls toward Christ and urging Christians to have a better relationship with God.

Professional and Civic Service

Pastor Craig was a licensed Funeral Director, known for his professionalism, compassion, and ministry of comfort to bereaved families. Through his dedicated service, he guided countless families with grace and dignity during their most trying times.

His commitment to public service extended beyond the church and funeral home. He served honorably on the Longview ISD School Board and as Gregg County Commissioner Precinct 4, always advocating for progress, fairness, and opportunity for all. Whether in the pulpit, in a board meeting, or in Commissioner’s Court, Pastor Craig’s leadership was marked by integrity, humility, and a heart for people.

Affiliations and Memberships

He was a member of the Longview Area International Ministerial Alliance, and NAACP Longview Branch Unit 6197. His leadership, service, and commitment earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues across ministry, business, and public life.

Family and Personal Life

Pastor Craig united in holy matrimony to Yvette Jones on August 30, 1985, a union blessed with 2 sons and a nephew. He was a caring spouse, a dedicated parent, and took great pride in his role as a grandfather. He served humbly and lived with unwavering faith in God. His wisdom and compassion touched everyone who crossed his path.

Preceded in Death and Survivors

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Paul & Jarusha Hutchins, Lonnie Craig Sr., Leatha “Jack” (as he called her) Wilborn, parents, brother, Ronald, nephew, Billy Wayne Craig, Jr. and sister, Danita.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife of 40 years, Yvette; 2 children, Michael (Aquia) and Danny II; nephew, Dr. Dexter Dafney-Craig; 3 grandchildren, Kyla, Bryson and Macy: one brother, Billy Wayne; a dedicated and dependable funeral staff, Don Centers, Katrina Thomas, Ashley Porter, Matt Morrison, Vince Williams, Darrell Hutchins, Linda K. Hamilton, and JaCorian Jones; and a host of loving relatives, church members, colleagues in ministry and funeral service, civic partners, and dear friends.

Closing Reflection

Pastor Danny E. Craig, Sr. lived a life of divine purpose and service as a Pastor who fed souls, a Funeral Director who comforted hearts, a Gregg County Commissioner who served his county, and a Longview ISD School Board Member who invested in the future of our children.

He fought a good fight, finished his course, and kept the faith.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” — Matthew 25:21

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