Lanny grew up in Clinton, Mississippi, and graduated from Clinton High School. He attended the University of Southern Mississippi graduating in 1968 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and earned a Masters of Business Administration from Mississippi College in 1979. While at USM, Lanny was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.
Lanny served in the United States Army (1LT) from 1968 to 1970, a portion of which was spent stationed in Korea. Mr. Craft served as Executive Director of the Mississippi Comprehensive Health Insurance Risk Pool Association from its inception in 1992 providing major medical health insurance to Mississippi residents who were not able to obtain coverage because of health conditions. As Executive Director, Lanny was active on the national level. He was instrumental in the formation and organization of the National Association of State Comprehensive Health Insurance Plans and served on its board of directors and as chairman. In these capacities, Lanny was vital to securing the passage of federal legislation ensuring the tax exempt status of state high risk health insurance pools.
Lanny was a historian at heart being well versed in the history of the United States. Lanny enjoyed sharing stories and obscure facts concerning Jackson and the surrounding area. Lanny was a member of the Jackson Yacht Club, serving as Commodore in 2004, and an avid sailor and crew member for vessels captained by Jessica.
Lanny is survived by his wife, Jessica Lea Craft of Jackson, Mississippi, and sister, Jane Craft Long of Franklin, Tennessee. He was preceded in death by his friend and brother-in-law, Willis "Buddy" Lea, who loved him dearly.
A graveside service will be held at Lakewood Memorial Park on Monday, October 10, 2022, at 9:30 a.m. A memorial service will be held at the Chapel at First Presbyterian Church, Jackson, Mississippi, on Monday, October 10, 2022, at 10:30 a.m., with visitation immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to First Presbyterian Church, Jackson, Mississippi, or a charity of your choice.
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