Paul Craig
Granite City | Save
Paul Elliott Craig, age 60, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Gateway Regional Medical Center, surrounded by love. Paul was born on August 13, 1965, in East St. Louis, Illinois, a beloved son of the late Elliott Craig and Eula (Hale) Hackethal.
On September 12, 2009, Paul married the love of his life, Leslie Smithson, in Sullivan, Missouri. Their marriage was built on devotion, laughter, and unwavering partnership, and together they created a home filled with love and family.
Paul spent many years working at Mick’s Garage in Granite City, where his skill, ingenuity, and strong work ethic were well known. A true jack of all trades, Paul could fix, build, repair, or tear down just about anything he set his mind to. If it was broken, Paul could make it right.
An outdoorsman at heart, Paul found peace in nature—whether hunting, working with his hands, or simply enjoying the fresh air. He was also an exceptional cook and a proud grill master, known for meals that brought family and friends together. Paul never met a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand—often reminding those who knew him that he was “just a phone call away.”
Above all else, family was Paul’s greatest joy. He loved his family deeply, and nothing brought him more pride than being a Papaw to his nine grandchildren—the true light of his life. His kindness, generosity, and steady presence will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Paul is survived by his devoted wife of sixteen years, Leslie Craig of Granite City, Illinois; his loving children Adam (Kyrsten) Stockman of Granite City, Josh (Catherine) Craig of Edwardsville, Terry (Isabel) Stockman of Granite City, and Chelsea (Brandon Smith) Crites of Pontoon Beach; and his cherished grandchildren Gabriella, Aaleyah, Emery Rae, James, Everett, Lily, Sylas, Violet, and Scarlet. He is also survived by extended family members and many dear friends.
A celebration of Paul’s life will be held with visitation from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, January 2, 2026, at Irwin Chapel in Granite City, Illinois. A funeral service will follow at 7:00 p.m., with Father Tom Smithson officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Paul’s family and will be accepted at the funeral chapel.
Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home
