Thomas E. Craven

Thomas Eartis Craven, longtime resident of Ables Spring, passed peacefully into the presence of his Savior on the morning of May 11, 2018. He was met in Heaven by his beloved wife, Iva, his parents, James and Ida Craven, sister, Geneva Louise Craven and three brothers: James Edward, Donald Ray and J. R. Craven. Thomas was born August 20, 1930 in Randolph County, Alabama and he grew up in a time that sculpted the perseverance and hardiness of America’s “Greatest Generation”. A time that also instilled in Thomas an inherent work ethic as well as a trustworthy and honorable personality. Initiative was a hallmark of Thomas’ character and his work in the construction industry for over 40 years enabled him to build a reputation of dedication and honesty and many of his projects are still enjoyed by the community such as the Gazebo at historic Ben Gill park. Thomas frequently visited Emmanuel Baptist Church where worshipping with his family brought such great joy. His devotion to his beloved wife whom he happily married July 17, 1950 is still a legacy his children and grandchildren cherish and they take comfort in knowing that Thomas and Iva are reunited again at each other’s side. Thomas is survived by his sons: Tommy Craven, Jimmy Craven, Billy Craven and wife, Abbie, all of Terrell; daughter, Patricia Martinson and husband David of Quinlan; grandchildren: Thomas, William, James, Robert, and Jammie Craven, Candace McCoy, Brandon and Casey Craven, Daniel and Sarah Hoover, Kyle Hammond, Jessica Farnham, Tiffany Almurshidi; 37 great grandchildren; sister, Darlene Mosley; brother in law, Glenn Holcomb as well as extended family members Rita Sue Craven and Jackie Beesley, along with extended grandchildren: Kailie, Cody, Harlee and a treasured friend, Dr. Priti Vyas and a host of so many other friends who will miss him greatly. Funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 15, 2018 at Max Slayton Funeral Chapel with interment to follow at Campground Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Monday, May 14, 2018 at Max Slayton Funerals and Cremations. For those wishing, memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

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Thomas E. Craven

August 20, 1930 - May 11, 2018