Craig Wesley Raye

Craig Wesley Raye, age 65, of Fayetteville, North Carolina departed this life on Sunday, July 11, 2021.

Craig was born to the late Rev. Dr. James Arthur Raye Sr. and late Wilhemina “Peggy” Baxter Raye in Fayetteville, N.C. on March 24, 1956. He received his elementary and secondary education in the public schools of Fayetteville, North Carolina. After graduating from E.E. Smith High School, Craig received a scholarship to play football at Michigan State University where he earned his Bachelor’s degree.

He went on to coach football at North Carolina A&T, Wichita State University, and Purdue University, before becoming the Head Track and Field Coach and Assistant Football Coach at Wesleyan University. He also served as Offensive Coordinator and Wide Receiver Coach for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff football team and completed his coaching and teaching career with Westover High School in Fayetteville, NC before retiring.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory: daughter, Kelley Raye-Wright (Fallon), siblings: James Arthur Raye Jr., Patricia Raye Robertson (preceded in death), Donald P. Raye (Towanda), Pamela D. Raye, step-mother Tisher Raye; step siblings, Donald James Duggins (Charmaine), Steven Duggins (Yolanda) and Eric Duggins, nieces, nephew and a host of relatives and friends.

A memorial will be held for Craig on August 14, 2021 at 1pm at Wiseman Funeral Home in Fayetteville, NC.

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