Bonnie Lou Craig

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Bonnie Lou Craig, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, who peacefully departed this life on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at the age of 95.

Bonnie was born on January 17, 1931, in Monette, Arkansas, to the late Carl Eugene and Deema Dora (Nelson) Blankenship. She married the love of her life, Estes Wilton Craig, on January 20, 1948, and together they built a beautiful family and a cherished life until his passing in 2015.

A devoted homemaker, Bonnie took great pride in her home, cultivating a vibrant garden and nurturing her family with unwavering love. Her passion for gardening was rivaled only by her enthusiasm for sports, especially when cheering on her beloved St. Louis Cardinals and Tennessee Titans.

Bonnie found joy in the simple things, such as solving crossword puzzles and, most importantly, spending time with her grandchildren. She had an extraordinary ability to spoil them and make every visit a cherished memory.

Bonnie's authenticity shone through in every aspect of her life. She was a woman of strong convictions, never afraid to speak her mind and share her heartfelt thoughts. Her fierce love for her family and pets was immeasurable, creating an environment of warmth and kindness that will remain in the hearts of her loved ones.

She is survived by her daughter, Jerri Carole Stutts, of Paragould; her sons, Carl Estes Craig (Carla) of Paragould and Joe Allen Craig (Sherry) of Murfreesboro, TN; her sisters, Linda Sue Blandford (Sidney) of Eagle, CO, and Joyce June Blankenship of Marked Tree; and her sister-in-law, Imogene Grady of Cardwell. Bonnie also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Stephanie Rapert, Jennifer (Rodney) Jackson, Caylie Craig, Kelsey (Joe Garry) Craig, Caleb (Baylie) Craig, Karilynn (Jason) Ramos, Cait Craig, Claire (Jake) Funderburk, Matt (Maryn) Craig, and Jacob Craig, as well as her treasured great-grandchildren, Abigail Rapert, Jeb Rapert, Jude Rapert, Kourtnei Jackson, Chase (Megan) Jackson, Finley Garry, Lainey Garry, Augusta Ramos, and Elaine Craig; and her great-great grandchildren, Ella Jackson, Preslee Jackson, Barron Jackson, Clara Jackson, and Cash Jackson.

In addition to her parents and husband, Bonnie was preceded in death by her brothers, Carl Edward Blankenship and John Verlan Blankenship, and her son-in-law, Nick Stutts.

In this time of mourning, we find comfort in the joy and love that Bonnie brought to our lives.
Her spirit will forever remain in our hearts, and we take solace in knowing that she is reunited with her beloved husband.

In celebration of Bonnie's life, a private service was held at Cardwell Cemetery.

Bonnie will be dearly missed but fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.

In Bonnie's memory, you may make donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital by clicking here or to the Cardwell Cemetery Association by mail to: Cardwell Cemetery Association, PO Box 482, Cardwell, MO 63829.