08/08/2026
Mr. James “Delmer” McCraw, 84, of Mount Airy, went home to be with his heavenly Father on Friday morning, August 7, 2026. Mr. McCraw was born September 9, 1941, in Surry County, one of four children born to the late James McKinley and Lizzie Atkinson McCraw. Delmer grew up in the Red Brush community and graduated from Dobson High School in 1959. He dedicated many years of service to Mount Airy Furniture Company before retiring. Known for a gentle spirit, steady hands, and a generous heart, Delmer found great joy in caring for honeybees. Beekeeping was more than a hobby, it was a calling that reflected his deep respect for nature, patience, and the quiet rhythms of the seasons. He also enjoyed tending his garden, spending time outdoors, camping, and making memories with family and friends. Delmer believed life’s sweetest moments were those shared with the people he loved. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and soon-to-be great-grandfather, Delmer’s kindness and quiet strength enriched the lives of all who knew him. Above all, he was a faithful follower of Christ and a longtime member of Blues Grove Baptist Church, where his steadfast faith was evident throughout his life. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Jewell “Judy” Newman McCraw; a son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Rhonda McCraw; a grandson and his wife, Logan and Jenna McCraw; an expected great-grandchild; a brother, Paul McCraw; two sisters-in-law, Ann Smith McCraw and Rhonda Newman Collins; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Mr. McCraw was preceded in death by an infant son; a sister and brother-in-law, Pauline and the Rev. Ernest Nichols; a brother, Wilford Lee “Will” McCraw; two sisters-in-law, Hazel Griffith McCraw and Sandra Gaye Newman; and a brother-in-law, Jimmy Ray Newman. A graveside service will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Skyline Memory Gardens, with the Rev. Travis Sechrist officiating. No formal visitation will be held. The family wishes to express their gratitude for the love and compassion shown by the staff of Mountain Valley Hospice and Palliative Care, especially the staff of the Joan and Howard Woltz Hospice Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Joan and Howard Woltz Hospice Home, P.O. Box 325, Dobson, NC 27017. Moody Funeral Services in Mount Airy is serving the family.
