James L. Craft, of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away at the St. Joseph Ann Arbor Hospital on October 17, 2023 surrounded by his family.

He was born the son of Evert and Zelphie (Cole) Craft on May 21, 1934 in Gage, Kentucky. On August 23, 1953, he married Madeline (Wiley) in Royalton, Kentucky, and she survives.

James was a man of faith and was a member of the Harvest Baptist Church for over 50 years. In his younger years, he enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and fishing. He was a member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 190 for over 25 years. Before joining the union, he was a plumber for Hilltop Plumbing. He loved working with his hands, making gifts for his family in his home workshop. 

In addition to his wife, Madeline, he is survived by his sons, Jerry (Vicki) Craft, and Bobby Craft; six grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson. James is also survived by his siblings: Mary (Jim) Tuttle, Lawrence Conley, Ray (Pam) Conley, Alma Conley, and Versie Pike; and brother-in-law, Bob Stafford. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings: Denzel (Beatrice) Conley, Ruby (Bill) Sawyer, Jewel Stafford, Evert Craft Jr., and Raymond Jack Craft.

The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Thursday, October 19, 2023 from 6-8 p.m., and Friday, October 20, 2023 from 6-8 p.m.

A funeral service will be held at the Harvest Baptist Church, 17999 Washburn Road, Grass Lake, Michigan on Saturday, October 21, 2023 at 10:00 a.m., with Pastor Bobby Toler officiating.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Harvest Baptist Church.