Major Joan Jean Craddock

Major Joan Jean Craddock, a retired and deeply devoted Salvation Army officer, was peacefully promoted to Glory on July 18, 2025, in Coos Bay, Oregon, at the age of 89.

Born on January 25, 1936, in Impact, Washington, to Clarence and Marguerite Kilgore, Joan was the sixth of eight children. From an early age, she embraced a life of faith and service, dedicating her heart and ministry to The Salvation Army.

Major Joan Craddock entered officership in 1956 and faithfully served the Lord and others through numerous appointments across the Western United States. While serving in one of her earliest postings in Billings, Montana, she met and later married fellow Salvation Army officer, Major Rodger Craddock. Together, they formed a remarkable ministry team, known for their compassion, commitment, and unwavering dedication to serving others until Major Rodger’s passing in 1989.

 Throughout her life, Major Joan remained a steadfast servant leader, touching countless lives with her wisdom, strength, and gentle spirit. Her ministry was marked by deep empathy and enduring love—always centered on glorifying God and lifting up those in need.

She was preceded in death by her parents, all of her siblings, her beloved husband Rodger, and her daughter Donna Farfan.

She is survived by her children, Rodger Craddock (Dena), Robert Craddock (Sondra), and Darlene Stapleford (John); eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren—all of whom were blessed by her love, guidance, and legacy of faith.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at The Salvation Army church in Coos Bay, located at 1155 Flanagan Avenue, on Saturday, August 16 at 1:00 p.m. A graveside service will follow on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Sunset Memorial Park in Eureka, California, beginning at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Salvation Army in honor of Major Joan’s lifelong commitment to serving God and others.

“Well done, good and faithful servant...” – Matthew 25:23

Arrangements are under the care of Coos Bay Chapel, 541-267-3131. Family and friends are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.coosbayareafunerals.com

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