Coach Willie Craft Jr.

Willie Craft, Jr. was born June 20, 1943 in Crystal Springs, MS to the late Willie Craft, Sr. and Lillie Mae Young. Willie was the second of five children of Lillie Mae Young Craft. He was a source of inspiration to all he came in contact with. In the early morning hours(07:40 am) on June 23, 2025 at Merit Central, Willie transitioned from his earthly home to his mansion in heaven with his sister by his side. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Johnny Craft and Joe Young.

Willie attended school and graduated from the Mississippi School for the Deaf in 1964.  While attending the Mississippi School for the Deaf, Willie was an outstanding athlete in basketball, track and softball.  He received numerous awards including participating in the Deaf Olympic Games.

After graduation he worked numerous jobs including bus driver for Southside Assembly Church of God in Raymond, MS, where he attended until he returned to the Mississippi School for the Deaf to give back to the institution that educated him.

Willie enjoyed sports, both playing and watching. He was an outstanding coach for both basketball and track. His skilled training, lead him to receive numerous "Coach of the Year" awards in both sports. Although he wasn't a standout football player, he was a true fan of the New Orleans Saints. 

Willie Craft, Jr., leaves to cherish his memory, one loving daughter, Annie Slaughter. He is survived by four grandchildren: Andrea Slaughter, Laderrick Scott, Lakendra Scott, and Lakenya Scott. His legacy continues through six great grandchildren: Journee McBride, Jaxpen Slack, Madison Finderson, Rilee' Haralson, Raiden Talley and Oaklee' Mapp.

Willie's legacy will forever be cherished by his only surviving sibling, Freda Craft, who he loved so dearly; brother-in-law, Brian Miles; two sister-in=laws: Catherine Young and Josie Craft; two nephews: Daimeon Collins and Jarvis Young; four nieces: Aiesha Collins, Keena Young, Kourtney Craft and Jackie Gatlin and a host of other relatives and friends.

Willie enjoyed the warmed of being called "Daddy" or "Pa-Pa" by several beloved children who became part of his heart. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all whose lives he touched-whether through family ties or the unbreakable bonds of love and presence.