WILMINGTON — Deena Craig, a long-time Wilmington resident, slipped peacefully and joyfully into the Big Embrace of her loving Savior on April 29, 2024. Deena lived life fully, remaining open to change and guided by her Lord.
For her, life was a big adventure to be savored moment by moment. Deena began her professional career as a CPA, but soon realized that this was not her true calling. She became involved in missions through YWAM, an interdenominational Christian missionary organization. She maintained her ties to YWAM throughout her life.
In her early thirties, she felt called to change careers and transitioned to medicine. She attended Wake Forest University School of Medicine’s Physician Assistant program, where her heart continued to be stirred toward missions and rural health. During this period, she also felt called to serve her country as an Army Reservist. Deena practiced in Florida for several years before moving to southeastern NC. There she directed and ran two rural health clinics. While living in Wilmington, Deena formed several fine dining and adventure travel groups. Her interest in travel led to her forming a company that took groups to her beloved Italy at least once a year. She loved that those who traveled together often established lifelong friendships.
In 2019 Deena felt called to relocate to Hawaii’s Big Island, which was experiencing a shortage of healthcare providers for its rural population. The island was also the home of YWAM’s world headquarters. Deena remained in Hawaii until health issues prompted her to move back to North Carolina.
Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday May 8, at Wilmington Funeral & Cremation Service, 1535 South 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403, where friends may call from 10 a.m. until time of services.
Interment will follow at Oleander Memorial Gardens, 306 Bradley Drive, Wilmington, NC 28409. After the interment, friends are invited to return back to the funeral home for a reception.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Deena’s Memory to Youth With A Mission.
Please leave condolence messages for Deena’s family here.
