James Craig Stanley, known as Craig to many, of Davis, passed away on September 28, 2026, at home surrounded by his family. He was born on November 27, 1947, in Rockford, the son of James F. and Constance “Connie” (Beach) Stanley. He worked as a specialized mechanic for 46 years for Humphrey Cadillac before it was bought by Napleton Cadillac. He served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam and was stationed in Germany as an E6 mechanic. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially fishing, and was especially proud of the 10-pound bass he caught while fishing in Florida. He had a passion for cars and enjoyed attending car shows and proudly showing off his Corvette. A devoted sports fan, he could often be found cheering on the Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, and watching NASCAR. He also enjoyed spending time boating on Lake Kegonsa in Wisconsin, making memories with those he loved.

Above all, he was a family-oriented man who cherished the time he spent with his loved ones. He especially enjoyed teaching his grandsons how to fish, passing along not only his love of fishing but also the memories and traditions they will carry with them for years to come. He was a kindhearted and humorous husband, dad, grandparent, brother, uncle, and friend.

He is survived by his lifetime companion, Nancy Garcia; niece, Tammy (Kevin) Wench; nephew, Jamie Stanley; stepchildren, Sherita (Tom) Morgan, Stephanie Garcia, and Richard (Melody) Garcia; 2 great nieces; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents and brother, David Stanley.

The family would like to give a special thank you to St. Anthony Hospital, the EMT’s, his sister-in-law, Sherry, and his granddaughter, Rachelle Powell.

A visitation will be on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 3910 N. Rockton Avenue Rockford, IL 61103. Private family burial will take place in Byron Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Make A Wish or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.