William Russell (Russ) Craft, of Port Wentworth, passed away Monday evening, May 17, 2021 at his home surrounded by his loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jim Quade.
Russ was born in 1955 in Ironton, OH and grew up across the river in Ashland, KY. He attended Paul Blazer High School. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, and when he left the Air Force, he began working in the aviation industry. He moved to Georgia around 1994. In 2005, he moved to Savannah and began working at Gulfstream, where he was employed for 16 years.
Russ’s favorite thing to do was be in his UK decorated garage. He loved sitting out there with the garage door open, waving at everyone that passed by and honked at him. He had neighbors and co-workers that were very special to him. He was an extraordinary craftsman and loved working with his hands.
Russ is survived by his wife and companion of 26 years, Patricia Craft, to whom he loved very much. He had 2 children from a previous marriage that he was devoted to. His daughter, Heather Craft, her companion Chris Hall; and his son James Russell (Russ) Craft, who is a spitting image of him. His sister Cheryl Vanhorn was also at his side when he passed. His mother Thelma Quade and his brother Tim Quade still reside in Ashland. He had 2 step-children, Sabrina McCoy and Samantha Hubner.
Russ was pawpaw to Brooklyn Garland, Ace McCoy, Scott Lumpkin and Mollie Hubner. He loved his grandkids fiercely and they loved him.
To honor his wishes, he was cremated and Trish plans on holding a “Celebration of Life” ceremony in Savannah and one in Ashland with a date to be determined.
Go Big Blue!
Offer Condolence for the family of William Russell (Russ) Craft
Print This Obituary & Condolences
Cindy Thompson
I am glad we bonded, as friends and work family. I’m going to miss seeing Russ at the hangar and running into y’all in Walmart and Sam’s. Hugs and Prayers …. with heart felt love,
Cindy Thompson
Willie Todd
My deepest sympathies to His wife and family. May you find peace in this very sad time. Russ will never be forgotten! 💕🕊
Priscilla Todd
Our deepest condolences to you and the family. We enjoyed coming by and speaking with you guys. You all are such great neighbors and we will miss Russ deeply. Please let us know if you need anything. Prayers and strength for you and the family.
Ray Jones
Russ was the guy that anyone could talk to. Respectful & kind.
The world was a better place because of him.
He was the rare person that treated everyone equal and made everyone feel good about themselves. Prayers for his family
They should be proud
The world would be a better play if more people lived like Russ ❤️🥲
Debbie Jones
So many memories have come rushing back since I heard we lost him. Though miles have kept us from seeing one another as often as we would like the Love has always been close . I will miss Rusty and his laugh . My Love and Prayers to all of us that loved him . Special prayers to Rustys loving wife and siblings . My heart is with you all .❤️
Nickie Guyton
My condolences to these wonderful people. Great couple of sweet ( crazy ) friends. Russ was a great man and will be missed by many . Prayers for Trish and their family.
Gene Myrkle
Hey Trish
I was totally floored when I saw your post. Saddened by your loss. I know you guys brought great joy to each other. Russ will be missed by many.
Gregg S. Kendryna
Russ was a great guy. My prayers go out to his family.
Joe and Lynn Mathews
So sorry to hear this sad news, although I haven’t seen Russ since my Mother moved away from beside y’all I can honestly say that he was a true friend and a great human being that never had a harsh word towards anyone.
Go rest high on that mountain my friend.
God bless and guide you too Trish, mom always thought the world of both of you.
Allison Lynes
I’ve been wanting to post but didn’t want to admit he’s gone…I adored Russ. One of a kind. A man’s man. So gruff but so loveable. Ornery at times (lol) but ever so kind. Nothing compared to making him smile, or him making you laugh. My heart hurts for Trish, Sabrina, all family and friends. Hugs all around!!