Craig Poindexter

Craig Poindexter passed away after a battle with cancer on December 5, 2019 in Arlington, Texas at the age of 88. He was born on July 2, 1931, to Cary Allen Poindexter and Clifford Mae Craig in San Antonio, Texas. He grew up in Crystal City and Austin, Texas. After a brief attempt at college, he joined the Navy and served in the Korean War as a radio operator. Upon returning to the states, he married his high school sweetheart, Julia Ann Hagood, on May 30, 1953. They remained stubbornly devoted to each other for the next 64 years. He attributed his success in life to his time in the Navy and their marriage, beginning with his return to study at the University of Texas at Austin, culminating in receiving his MD from UTMB Galveston. After a couple of years as a general practitioner, he went on to specialize in orthopedic surgery, practicing in Arlington from 1967 to 2000. Despite a very busy practice, we often teased him that being a doctor was his “side job” because he was so active with volunteer work in other organizations. He started as scoutmaster of his sons’ troop in 1973 and didn’t retire from this position for 40 years! On top of that, he also coached his kids’ soccer teams. His medical office became a source for recruiting volunteers or participants for his troop and teams.

He liked to hike, sail, hunt, and otherwise enjoy the outdoors. His drive and persistence led to numerous achievements. Over his years of practice, he healed many a bone and joint, and touched countless lives. His passion was leading young people to realize their potential. Because of his desire to help everyone, Doc wasn’t timid in helping anyone choose and achieve their path. Loyalty was a staple of his personality; in fact, he exemplified all the character traits in the scout law. His service earned him many awards over the years, but he did not like being recognized. Instead he would use the platform to inspire others to go out and serve. His most prized rewards were seeing what those young people would move on to do with their lives. He was a model of how one’s life can be used to positively influence others.

He is survived by his children, Allan Poindexter of Arlington, Texas, Mark Poindexter (and Heather Kretzschmar) of Austin, Texas, Cindy Tarver (and Bill) of Friendswood, Texas, grandchildren Laura and Matthew Tarver, as well as adopted grandchildren Brian and Phillip Fratto, and their children. In addition, he is survived by his sister-in-law Peggy Poindexter, half-sister Larissa Poindexter, half-brother Powell Poindexter (and Diane), nieces, nephews, in-laws, and the many others that he and Judy adopted into their hearts along the way.

He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, and his brother Allan Poindexter.

Graveside service was held December 8, 2019 in Austin, Texas at the Oakwood Annex Cemetery. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1 pm on January 18, 2020 at First Presbyterian Church, Arlington, Texas.

Donations in his memory can be sent to a charity of your choice. Some to consider are the Neuro Fitness Foundation (www.NeuroFitnessFoundation.org), Troop 68 Arlington, Texas Alumni Association (2700 Lucas Dr, Arlington, Texas 76015-1012), or National Kidney Foundation (www.kidney.org).