JoLeta Craig

JoLeta Craig of Alamogordo, New Mexico passed away on July 23, 2023. She was born in Roff, OK on May 30, 1924, to Ennis H. and Olvia C. Hudson. JoLeta married Faber J. Craig on February 27, 1943, in Los Angeles, CA.

They both had brief careers working in defense plants during WWII. JoLeta worked as "Rosie the Riveter" at Douglas Aircraft in Santa Monica, CA. They enjoyed many Sunday afternoons jumping waves at Santa Monica Beach.

Following the war, she and Faber returned to Roff, OK where they owned and operated Farmer's Exchange grocery store for 15 years. In 1956, they began their college educations at East Central State College in Ada, OK. They received their Bachelors Degrees in 1960, moved their family to Alamogordo, NM and began their teaching careers. They returned each summer to OK and completed their Masters Degrees in 1963. JoLeta taught first grade at North Elementary School for 24 years. When she retired in 1984, she became an avid bridge player. JoLeta and Faber traveled extensively, including trips to the Holy Land, China, Europe, Australia, Russia, and Hawaii. They were happily married for 53 years. JoLeta was an active member of First Baptist Church from 1960 until 2008 when she transferred her membership to Bethel Baptist Church. 

JoLeta was pre-deceased by her husband, Faber, in 1996; two brothers, Eldon Hudson in 2001 and Keith Hudson in 2010; and a sister, Charlotte Ann Hudson in 1948. 

She is survived by three daughters, Sandra K. Corriveau and husband John of Las Cruces, Kathleen Choice and husband Eddie of Dallas, TX and Janice G. Heggem and husband Ron of Albuquerque. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Kyle E. Reagin, Bradford N. Heggem and Erin A. Corriveau; great grandchildren, Austin Heggem, Alyssa Heggem, Jace Heggem, Kendyl Reagin, and Briggs Reagin; brother, Jack D. Hudson; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

She will be greatly missed by her friends and beloved family.

The funeral service for JoLeta Craig will be held at 2:00 pm, Thursday, July 27, 2023, at Alamogordo Funeral Home with Pastor Matt Celoria officiating.

Burial will follow at Monte Vista Cemetery.

The Craig family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home to direct the funeral services.

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