Craig Stephen “Shorty” Wills

Craig Stephen Wills “Shorty” was born October 14, 1954, to Hershel and Genevia Wills at Granite City, IL. He departed to his forever home on February 6, 2022. Craig was saved and baptized at an early age into the Baptist Church, he then re-dedicated his life to Christ again on October 12, 2007. He knew our Savior and is now rejoicing with his loved ones in Heaven.

Craig was a very outgoing and friendly person; he never met a stranger and if he did, they weren’t a stranger for long!! Most of his working years was spent operating a backhoe, digging, and placing underground phone lines throughout most of Southeast Missouri. When he wasn’t working Craig always loved being in the outdoors. Whether it was deer or turkey hunting, fishing, or arrowhead hunting he loved being out and about. He also loved to go out riding through the area on his Harley with his brother-in-law Chris or his newfound friend Rick Ynruh.

Craig found his forever love Debbie on February 5, 1978, making their time together 44 years. This love gained Craig a son and daughter, Jay, and Jamie. While he found enjoyment in most everything he did, nothing brought him as much pride and joy as being with his family, especially his grandkids and Great grandkids. There have been very few trap shoots, cross country meets, volleyball, basketball, softball, or baseball games that he wasn’t at watching and cheering the kids on. It was very common to hear, “That’s MY Granddaughter!!” or That’s MY Grandson!!” after a big play was made during a game.

Craig was “THAT GRANDPA” …. the one that played hide and seek, or pushed them on the swing sets, or watched them jump and flip on the trampoline, or went with them hunting, or just hung out visiting with them. He was the Grandpa that was always there to keep the kids anytime, any day, or anywhere. There was nothing that this Papa wouldn’t do with his Great-Grandsons; from chasing dogs to kicking soccer balls they were always busy doing something. And there is No Doubt that this new Great-Granddaughter would’ve had him wrapped around her little finger!! The pride he had for his family was evident in everything he said and did.

Craig is preceded in death by his parents Hershel and Genevia Wills, half-brother Ronnie Wills, Daughter Jamie Lynn Willbanks, father and mother-in-law AJ and Norma Duncan, and several aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his wife Debbie, son Jay Duncan and wife Sue, Grandchildren Tanya Smith and husband Dusty, Tayla and Tristan Duncan and Kayna Willbanks. Great-Grandchildren Sawyer, Hunter, and Gracelynn Smith. Brother-in-law Chris Duncan and wife Beth, Sister-in-law Pam Wallander. Several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Craig “Shorty” was deeply loved and will be forever missed!!!

Funeral services were Friday, February 10, 2022 at Bradford Funeral Home. Interment was in the Arroll Cemetery. Services were under the care of Bradford Funeral Home and online condolences may be left at www.bradfordfuneralhome.net