Obituary: Elizabeth Ann Craig

Elizabeth Ann Craig, also known as Betty, passed away on Dec. 8, 2023, in Aguanga, California, at the age of 85. She was born on Sept. 5, 1938, in Muskegon Heights, Michigan. Betty was a kind, loving, and caring person, cherished by all who knew her.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Antonio Stefanich, her two brothers Leroy (Lee) Lewis, Bud Stefanich, husband Gary Craig, and her son Billy Craig. 

She is survived by three brothers: Johnny Stefanich from South Dakota, Bob and Leroy Stefanich, as well as one sister, Linda Luce from Michigan. Betty is also survived by her five children: Lynn Jolliffe and Doug English of San Diego; Mike Craig of Florence Arizona; Laura Cech of Vacaville, Calif. and Cheri Branzski of Aguanga; as well her two nephews, Rodney Craig of Arizona and Mike Craig of Washington, whom she co-parented. 

She leaves behind a legacy of love and is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

In her early years, Betty attended Catholic primary and high schools. She later embarked on a successful career as a business owner, establishing Craigs Hauling and Landscape, and Absolute auctions. 

In 1978, she and her late husband Gary founded AFC (alcoholics for Christ) a nonprofit worldwide ministry and, in 1982, their first book was published. In 1979, Betty became a recovered alcoholic and kept her sobriety for 44 years.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Betty found joy in various hobbies, including gardening, drawing and painting. These activities allowed her creative spirit to flourish and provided her with a sense of fulfillment.

A memorial service to celebrate Betty’s life will be held at her residence in Aguanga, California, on Jan. 15, 2024, at 1 p.m. Family, friends, and loved ones are invited to attend to celebrate her life.

Elizabeth Ann Craig, or Betty as she was affectionately known, will be remembered as a compassionate and loving individual. Her presence in the lives of her family and friends will be deeply missed. As a believer in Christ Jesus, we have the assurance she will rest with him eternally.