With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of Jeffrey “Aaron” Craig II, a beloved husband, devoted son, and cherished father. Aaron’s passing has left a void in our lives, but his spirit will forever resonate within the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Born on June 25, 1979, in Lexington, Kentucky, Aaron was an adventurous soul who found solace in the great outdoors. Aaron loved hiking, hunting, riding his Harley, and fishing with his other brother Patrick. Aaron also loved to travel and enjoyed chasing waterfalls with his family in NC. He was proud of his title as being the “favorite” given by Aunt Grethel.
Aaron pursued higher education at the American Public University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree. This accomplishment allowed him to fulfill his dreams and embark on a successful career as a Nuclear Engineer. His dedication and expertise made him a valuable asset to Innovative Solutions, where he employed his profound knowledge for the betterment of society.
Within his family, Aaron was a beacon of love and support. He was the loving and devoted husband of Karen Craig, whose lives intertwined in a beautiful union that brought joy to both of their hearts. Together, they made cherished memories and faced life’s ups and downs with unwavering strength and commitment.
Aaron will be forever remembered by his mother, Anne Caldwell, and stepfather, James Caldwell, of Versailles, Kentucky. In his role as a father, Aaron adored his four children: Peyton and Jaxon Craig of Wheelersburg, James “Dalton” Messer of Kermit, West Virginia, and Alaina Brewer of Lucasville. Aaron’s wife and kids were his universe. Aaron called Dalton an A-1 race car driver, Peyton his genius son that will do well in college, Jaxon his rock-star athlete that hopefully never needs bail money, and Alaina his beautiful angel that always makes him smile.
His love for them knew no bounds, and his legacy will live on through their lives.
He leaves behind his two brothers, Ryan (Samantha) Craig of Georgetown, Kentucky, “WHOM AARON WAS TALLER THAN”, and Nathaniel Craig of Oregon, as well as his two sisters, Kimberly Craig of Minnesota and Koren (Craig) Walsh of Sylvania, Ohio. Aaron’s extended family, including numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
In Celebration of Aaron’s life a gathering will be held on Tuesday, December 26, 2023, from 5:00 to 6:00 PM. Service immediately following at 6:00 PM, all at Christ’s Community Church, 2433 Twenty-fifth Street, Portsmouth, OH 45662.
Pastor Scott Rawlings will be officiating and Reverend Ralph Clay soloist.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to Christ’s Community Church, or to FC Daehler Mortuary, 915 Ninth Street, Portsmouth, OH 45662, in Aaron’s memory.
Though we grieve the loss of Aaron, we find solace in knowing that his spirit will forever live on in our hearts. His indomitable passion for life, his unwavering love for his family, and his steadfast dedication to his faith will forever inspire us to live each day with abundant joy and kindness.
A personal note from Aaron:
“I am no longer seen. You cannot touch me, but I am here beside you. You cannot contain me. And you wouldn’t want to, either. Because I am free in this new place. And believe it or not, I am finally perfect. I am happy. I am healthy. I am whole. And I am with you always, even until the end of time.
But I am not dead. Not even a little.”
Please visit www.fcdaehlermortuary.com to leave a special memory of Aaron or condolences for his family.
