Gene Craig, known affectionately throughout the community as Mr. Cigarette, obtained his ultimate healing on November 27, 2024, in the presence of his loving family. He was born October 23, 1936, embracing the opportunity to ultimately become a dedicated father, beloved friend, and cherished member of the community. The proud resident of Campbell, Ohio leaves a legacy steeped in love, laughter, and unwavering support for those he held dear.

Mr. Cigarette life reflects strength and resiliency. His birth mother passed during the process of his emergence. However he was nurtured and loved by his father Alfred Craig and Agnes Patterson who would fulfill the role as a mother in his life.

Gene was a laborer, spending many years contributing his skills at Commercial Metal Forming. His spirit was forged through hard work, yet it was his heart that defined him.

He pledged an unbroken vow in holy matrimony to his bride, Cloteal Moton-Craig, until she parted in death. Together, they built upon each other’s strengths to create a home with a foundation of love and mutual respect. Gene loved fiercely his family, a flame that illuminated the lives of all around him, warming hearts and creating a sense of belonging. Gene’s love for his wife and their children was reflected in the laughter and warmth that filled his home.

One could often find Mr. Cigarette enjoying a coffee with his buddies at McDonald's on McCartney Road, reminiscing, swapping stories and proudly bragging on the success and accomplishments of his children and grandchildren over a warm cup of coffee.

When the holidays rolled around, Gene would brighten the room with his harmonica, filling the air with love songs that resonated with the spirit of the season. He enjoyed frequenting the Pitstop on Logan Ave, The Donald Lockett VFW in Coitsville, Soso Night Club on Youngstown's northside and the Amercian Social Club in Campbell, where laughter and camaraderie flourished.

An avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan, Mr. Cigarette was never shy to share his passion for the game. To say he loved the team would be an understatement; he carried that spirit within him every game day, often rallying those around him for spirited discussions and enthusiastic cheers.

He leaves behind his loving children, Melva (Terry) Turner, Gwen (Terry) Graves, Alfred Craig, and Ramona Moton, and the joy of fellowship with his grandchildren, who he cheered on tirelessly from the stands at their little league baseball games. He was their biggest fan, a constant source of support and enthusiasm. He proudly made his presence known at their public events, performances or competitions. Whatever the endeavor, Mr. Cigarette was in full support! Mr. Cigarette played an influential role in the lives of his grandchildren Clifton Moton, Regina Moton, Sharree Moton, and Craig Moton.

Gone but never forgotten, Mr. Cigarette is now reunited with his parents, his wife & soul mate Cloteal, son William Moton and a great-granddaughter, Chloe Kay Craig, losses that touched him deeply but whose memories he always treasured in his heart. Together in eternity, he joins a great cloud of witnesses to observe his enduring legacy as it grows through the generations.

As we gather to honor Gene’s life, let us remember the beautiful moments shared, the laughter that echoed through his home, and the love that surrounded him always. In his memory, may we carry forward his spirit of kindness, his love for family, and his unwavering support for others.

A celebration of Gene's life will take place on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 11:00 am, at Jerusalem Baptist Church, 2003 Wilson Ave, where Rev. Derrick H. Anderson will oversee the memorial service as the celebrant.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the beloved family of Gene “Mr. Cigarette” Craig elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave., Youngstown OH 330.782.8500