Lila Craig
Lila Mae Craig, lovingly known by “Betty” passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at the age of 92 with her family by her side. She was born on August 15, 1933 to the late William and Tessie “Mae” Southern.
In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by her husband, John “Russell” Craig; son, Ernie Lee; granddaughter, Lisa Ann Delp; brothers, Emmett, Jackie, Roger, and Buford “Rex” Southern, which she loved dearly.
One brother remains, Bill Southern, which resides in Waynesboro, VA.
She was loved beyond words by her children: Sandy Batton, Debbie Delp, John Sarver, Cathy Tisdale, and John Abshire; son-in-laws: Jim Batton, Jack Delp, and Roger Tisdale; daughter-in-law, Angela Abshire.
Betty had many grandchildren, great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild that she loved beyond words. Many special memories were made with her grandson, Sidney Eavey that was given his first job by his grandma at Purple Cow making them “Betty Burgers”. Lenna Abshire also worked with her grandma and made special memories. Betty retired to take care of her granddaughter, Whitney Tisdale Lowther and Christopher Lee Tisdale because she didn’t want them to go to a daycare. The love and nurturing that she shared with her grandkids will live on forever.
Betty loved all animals and nothing went hungry on her watch. She loved to sit on her porch and drink coffee and watch the birds. She became quite the “Cat Lady” in her older years. She loved bingo and playing slots machines as a past time until dementia made it quite difficult. Betty was a hard worker and still lived independently until her death.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone that offered love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. A special thanks to the Shenandoah House that showed her such compassion and love in her last days. The family will be forever grateful.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 1pm at Grand Caverns, Grottoes, VA.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Lila’s memory to Alzheimer’s and dementia research or to the Shenandoah House.
Though she may no longer walk beside us, her love, laughter, stories, and beautiful spirit will remain in our hearts and in the hearts of all that knew and love her. Her life was a blessing, her memories a treasure. She was loved beyond words and will be missed beyond measure.
