Ernest Eugene Craine, age 81 passed away on April 12, 2026. Ernest was born February 15, 1945 in Highlands, North Carolina to the late Phillip Craine and late Carrie (Henry) Craine.

A proud graduate of Highlands High School, Class of 1964, Ernest carried a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility throughout his life. He spent many years employed with Vulcan Materials as a skilled crane operator. Ernest had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, especially enjoying fishing and hunting, and working on various mechanical projects. He was also a decorated veteran, having honorably served his country in Vietnam as a Ranger in the United States Army Special Forces, earning two Bronze Stars for his bravery and service. Ernest was a member of Liberty Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, Ernest was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Nell Williams Craine; second wife, Kelli Craine; and siblings, Chuck Craine, Richard Craine, Pete Craine, Edward Craine, Marie McCoy, Mary McCoy, Evelyn Picklesimer, Ethel Ramey, Katherine Craine, and Lena Dindy.

Ernest is survived by his children, Greg Craine (Marcey) and Melissa Maddox (Mike); grandchildren, Michael Maddox Jr., Isaac Craine, and Isabel Craine; and great-grandchildren, Natalie Maddox, Alivia Craine, Gracelyn Craine, and Walker Craine.

Visitation will be held Thursday, April 16, 2026 from 12:00pm until 2:00pm at Beck Funeral Home with a Funeral Service at 2:00pm in the Beck Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow in Liberty Community Cemetery.

Beck Funeral Home, in Clayton, Georgia, is in charge of the arrangements and is honored to serve the family of Ernest Eugene Craine. If there are any questions, please call 706-782-9599. An online Memorial Register Book is available at www.beckfuneralhome.com.