Jack Crafton

Jack Crafton of St. James, passed away with his family at his side on March 19, 2019 at the Missouri Veterans Home in St. James.  He was 87 years, 3 months and 12 days of age.

Jack Crafton born on December 7, 1931 in Indianapolis, Indiana to his parents: Roy and Alberta Nail Crafton.  He was united in marriage to Jean Alice Smallwood  on August 18, 1956  at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Rosati.

Jack was a loving husband, father and grandfather, uncle and friend. After graduating high school, he attended college for a short time. He served his country in the United States Navy, in the Korean War and was stationed in Iceland. He received a Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. He was a vital part of the St. James community. He was Post Master at St. James Post Office for 30 years. He was active and supportive in many civic activities of St. James. Jack never met a stranger he was a truly a friend to all. With incredible ease he could strike up a conversation about the local ball teams or how the weather was affecting the local farmers. With his positive outlook on life he encouraged many young people on their path to success in sports, college, or their occupation. He and his wife Jean had a beautiful farm in St. James. He loved raising cattle, working in the hay fields and riding his three wheeler and even sometimes turning the three wheeler over. Not being one to be idle, he kept busy in his retirement opening an antique shop. He also loved to work with wood and spent many hours in his wood shop making furniture. Jack will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved.

Jack Crafton is survived by  his wife of the home: Jean Alice Crafton; daughters: Jennifer Ann Thompson and husband Shawn of Jefferson City, Mo. and  Janet Creek and husband Jerry of Salem, Mo.; along with seven grandchildren: Sydney, Shawn Michael, Hannah, Tripp, Katie, Jacob, and Dayton.

Preceding Jack Crafton in death are his parents; son: Michael Crafton on November 5, 1994, one brother: Leroy Crafton and one sister: Pauline Gunter.

Visitation for Jack Crafton will be on Friday, March 22, 2019 from 4 - 8 p.m. at the Jones Funeral Home in St. James.

Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted on Saturday, March 23, 2019 at 10 AM at the St. Anthony's Catholic Church in  Rosati with Father Charles Pardee, Celebrant.  Pallbearers will be: John Smallwood, Jeff Smallwood, Pat Smallwood, Tom Smallwood, Dan Pherigo, and Chaz Gunter.  Burial will be beside his son, Michael at the Immaculate Conception Church Cemetery.

All arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Mo.

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