Lois Mary Craig

Lois (85) moved on to the next life on February 16, 2023, after a lengthy illness. She was born April 4, 1937, in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. In 1960 she graduated from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse with a major in Physical Education. She earned her M.A. at Northern Michigan University in 1974. Her teaching and coaching career spanned 39 years.

Lois’s first eight years of teaching were spent at Neenah High School, Neenah, Wisconsin. Besides her teaching responsibilities, she was advisor for G.A.A., coached JV and Varsity cheerleaders, and started the first boys’ cheerleading squad in the state.

In 1968 she moved to San Diego where she spent 31 wonderful years at Point Loma High School teaching Physical Education and coaching. When women’s athletics started in 1974, she began coaching the first varsity girls’ volleyball team followed by coaching varsity softball - both for 25 years. Lois served PLHS as a teacher, coach, student teacher critic, department chair for boys and girls, Assistant Athletic Director, Athletic Director and was supervisor for most of the extracurricular activities at PLHS.

Lois also volunteered outside of school. She was on the High School Sports Association Board, C.I.F tournament director for boys’ and girls’ volleyball, served on the Hall of Champions High School coaching selection committee and wrote the Athletic Handbook for San Diego city schools.

Throughout her 31 yrs. in San Diego., Lois received several awards. She was awarded the Able Foundation Award for Excellence (awarded to teachers who have made a significant impact on student achievement and school climate), University of Wisconsin – La Crosse Wall of Fame award for professional accomplishments and dedication to the field of Physical Education, C.I.F Outstanding Service award, and the Hall of Champions Meritorious Achievement Award.

Lois will be remembered by all who knew her as an educator who cared for and supported all students. Her life was devoted to her “10,000 kids”. When she retired in 2000, she found other ways to feed her love of people. She joined a gym and took charge of her workout group. In 2018 she moved to Lantern Crest Senior Community and within a month became known as the “Mayor of Lantern Crest”. She loved people, enjoyed reading and photography. We could all learn and pay forward the Lois Craig philosophy – Positive Mental Attitude – PMA. Let’s all remember Lois for her kindness, her smile, her PMA and most of all – the red lipstick! Rest in peace, dear friend!

In accordance with Lois’s wishes, there will be no service or celebration. Donations in memory of Lois can be made to the San Diego Humane Society or to any nonprofit charity of your choice.