Florine Smith Craig

Florine Smith Craig, 82, of Greenville, passed from her earthly home to her Heavenly home on April 7, 2026, to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was the widow of Thomas Ellis Craig, with whom she shared 48 sweet years of marriage. She was Momma to two children, Ron and Kimberly, and Mimi to five grandchildren, Luke, Isaac, Levi, Eden, and Brooklyn. There is so much in her name of “Momma” that words are inadequate to describe how fully she lived out that role. She was determined to do what was best for her children – even when it was hard, even when the path was uncharted, and even when it stretched her far beyond her comfort zone. If needed, she could be feisty. She once jumped – seemingly flat-footed – a six-foot fence to protect one of her children. To her, it was only a small obstacle. She set her children’s priorities in order. When it was time to leave for church, it was in their best interest to be ready and in the car before her. After school, homework came first. In the home, she taught her children how to manage a budget with the firm belief that “if you do not have it to spend, you don’t spend it.” She taught her children to be caretakers of what they were blessed with – even if it meant leaving plastic covers on household items to extend their longevity. She instilled cleanliness and orderliness. She taught the importance of character over vanity, often saying “pretty ways make pretty girls.” She displayed contentment. She did not have a spirit of jealousy, nor did she measure what she had against what others had. She taught the joy of simple activities and quiet moments, finding delight in tending to flowers, cross-stitching, playing games, and working puzzles. She taught friendliness and the importance of being a good neighbor, organizing lunch outings for the neighborhood ladies and leading benevolent activities. By example, she showed her children how to love, respect, and honor their spouse. Above all, she taught her children how to worship: in prayer, in giving; and in service. She gave her children many wonderful intangible gifts, one of the most cherished being the gift – and privilege – of caring for her as she aged. Florine was a faithful church member from the time she was saved until her health no longer allowed her attendance. She found joy in serving as a Sunday School teacher and a member of Ladies for Missions, where she enthusiastically prepared care packages and gifts for missionary families. Most of all, she loved singing in the choir. She often joked that she made the “noise” described in Psalm 100:1, “Make a joyful noise unto The Lord...”. Her “noise” was always joyful and delivered with a brilliant smile. As her health declined, she became a shut-in member of Victory Baptist Church of Easley. Over time, Florine became known to many as “Flo”. She would tell people that remembering her name was easy, saying “You just have to go with the Flo.” That remains her heart’s desire even now – that all of her family, friends, and acquaintances would “go with the Flo” and join her in Heaven someday through faith in Jesus Christ. Florine is survived by her son Ron Craig and his wife Joy, of Pittsboro, NC, and by her daughter Kimberly Proctor and her husband Robert, of Easley. Unlike clichéd relationships between in-laws, Florine sincerely loved Joy and Robert. They both called her “Mom” and provided wonderful support as her care needs grew. She is also survived by her five grandchildren Luke Proctor, Isaac Proctor, Levi Proctor, Eden Proctor, and Brooklyn Craig, all of whom took on responsibilities beyond their years to help care for their Mimi. In addition, she is survived by her brother Lester Smith and his wife Mary Ann, of Piedmont, and her sister-in-law Lynda Smith, of Belton. In addition to her husband, she is predeceased by her parents Furman and Pearl Smith; sister Evelyn Smith; brother Leslie Smith; brother Ledford Smith; sister Betty Price; and brother-in-law Dennis Price. Florine was consistently and constantly surrounded by her children and grandchildren as they demonstrated their love. In that same manner, they will gather around her again as her body is laid to rest. You are invited to join them for a graveside service on Friday, April 10th at 3 pm at Graceland Cemetery West, 4814 White Horse Road, Greenville. Momma, it is so fitting that you went Home on the seventh day of the month. Seven has always been my favorite number. In Scripture, it symbolizes completion and perfection. In my eyes, you were already perfect. Oh – but now! Your race is complete and you are absolutely perfect! I love you. Thank you, Momma. - Kimberly "Lovingly submitted by the family"

Florine Smith Craig

July 27, 1943 - April 7, 2026