Craig Lee McElvain, age 65, of Spokane, Missouri

Craig Lee McElvain, age 65, of Spokane, Missouri, went home to his Savior, April 16, 2023, with family by his side. He entered this life August 14, 1957, the son of George Van Dyke and Peggy (Heafley) McElvain in Kansas City, Missouri. Craig was joined in marriage to the love of his life, Laurel Ray on May 28, 1983. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Van McElvain.

Having a servant’s heart, Craig was led into ministry at an early age. He grew up in Overland Park, Kansas, prior to earning his bachelor’s degree from TCU. Craig furthered his education and knowledge by earning a Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. While at Fuller, Craig was awarded the opportunity to further his studies at Edinburgh Theological Seminary, Edinburgh, Scotland. He was a true Renaissance man, skilled with his hands as well as his heart. Craig planted many churches through MAP- Ministry Apprentice Program. This led to Craig and Laurel making many friends and building countless relationships, including their work in Haiti. Craig enjoyed music and his service to God. He adored his wife, his children, and grandchildren, but his greatest love was his relationship with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The lives Craig McElvain touched will be remembered as his work continues beyond his time here on Earth.

He is survived by his wife of thirty-nine years, Laurel McElvain of Spokane, Missouri; three sons: Scott (Nichole) McElvain of Kirbyville, Missouri, Cory (Celecia) McElvain of Bonner Springs, Kansas, and Kevin (Allyson) McElvain of Overland Park, Kansas; and seven grandchildren: Hudson, Boone, Winston June, Louis, Mabel, Luca, and one on the way. He is also survived by his sister, Lesa McElvain of Overland Park, Kansas; sister-in-law, Onnie McElvain of Overland Park, Kansas; three nephews: Hunter Moffatt, Sean McElvain, and Alex McElvain, all of Overland Park, Kansas.

There will be a memorial service held 10:00 a.m. April 29, 2023, at Colonial Presbyterian Church, 9500 Wornall, Kansas City, Missouri, with Kent Matthews officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials in memory of Craig may be made to REACH Inc/operation Haiti, (https://www.mightycause.com/story/X9upye). Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.cremationsoftheozarks.com.