Hurshel "Gene" Craig

Danville – Hurshel E. “Gene” Craig, 94, of Danville passed away at 8:39 AM on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Hawthorne Inn of Danville. He was born on May 18, 1932, near Metcalf, IL to Thomas Hurshel and Letha Mae (Short) Craig. He married Pauline Craig on December 29, 1954, in Chrisman. She survives.

Also surviving are a daughter, Toni (David) Troxel of Peoria Heights, IL; three grandchildren, Dylan, Zack, and Logan Troxel; two brothers, Bill (Kay) Craig and Ralph Craig; and a sister, Sue (Bill) Sigmon.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Tina Craig, and a brother, Marion Craig.

After high school, Gene proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. He would begin his career in agronomy after earning his master’s degree in agriculture from the University of Illinois. Gene’s soil studies led him to become well-known in the Ag community. His knowledge and expertise gave him the opportunity to become an instructor at Danville Junior College and DACC and to serve as the President of the State Crop Protection Organization. Gene gained respect amongst his peers in the Community Colleges and authored several articles which were published in top agricultural magazines. He would serve as an independent agronomy consultant until his retirement.

Gene was also a long-time member of the Bismarck United Methodist Church, as well as Methodist churches in the Gifford and Farmer City communities prior. Most of all, Gene loved his family and cherished the opportunities he had to spend time with them.

A service to celebrate the life of Gene Craig will be held at 6 PM on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Bismarck United Methodist Church, 115 S. Chicago Ave., Bismarck, IL 61814. Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 PM prior to the service, also at the church. He will be laid to rest at 10:30 AM on Monday, September 14, at Hoult Cemetery in Chrisman. Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL 61834 has been entrusted with arrangements. Memorials in his name may be made to Bismarck United Methodist Church.

Please join Gene’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of his life through his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.