Dolores O Craig

Dolores Craig, known fondly as “Dede” to her family and friends, passed away on March 12, 2025, at the remarkable age of 88. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister-in-law, and friend—roles she cherished most in life. Family and community were at the heart of everything she did, and her presence brought warmth and connection to those who knew her.

For over 50 years, Dede made her cherished home in Tampa, living independently and embracing life with an adventurous spirit. She found joy in the simple pleasures—driving across the bridges of Tampa Bay just to admire the water, visiting with her family, hosting friends at her home, and creating lasting memories with her neighbors whom she considered family.

Beyond her personal life, Dede was a highly accomplished health care professional. She earned her Master’s Degree in Nursing, which led to her becoming a proud Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). She was a pioneer in HIV treatment and infection control, dedicating her career to helping others through her work at many of the medical care systems within the Tampa area. Her passion for public health also took her far beyond Tampa, as she traveled to Rwanda and Haiti to aid rural communities in need—an accomplishment she held especially close to her heart.

Dede is survived by her five children: Debbie Miller (Keith), Deanna Bailey (Paul), Janice Craig, Mary Beth Shea (Steve), and Charlie Craig (Sally); her siblings: Dick Osborn (Gloria), Diane Reeser (Jim); five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; many nephews, nieces, and other close relatives; and countless friends who became family. She was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Lucille Osborn, and her dear sister, Betsy Wilson.

Dede lived a full life, one defined by love, caring service, close friendship, and fun. We love and miss her greatly, but hope that the memory of the joy in her life and of the strong and passionate woman that she was will bring us all smiles and laughter.

Family and friends are invited to drop in at Dede's home on April 26, 2025 from 3-6 pm to share memories and celebrate Dede's life.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dede's name may be made to amFar (The Foundation for AIDS Research).