Craig Whitney Forrester, 54, passed away on March 25, 2017 at Novant Presbyterian Hospital in Charlotte, NC after a 5+ year battle with pancreatic cancer.

He was born in New York City on September 10, 1962 to Myra Holden Forrester and Martin C. Forrester.  Craig was the fourth-born of five children.  His parents and siblings Alfonso, Byron, Roxanne, and Karl all reside in the Washington D.C./Maryland area.   A son of a diplomat, Craig's childhood included residence in many different countries, including Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, and France.  He was fluent in both Spanish and French.  He graduated from Paint Branch High School in Burtonsville, MD and attended Emory-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, FL.

Craig was an inspiration to everyone who knew him, and will leave behind an army of admirers.  He was married for 13 wonderful years to his biggest fan, Kelly, and they celebrated their final anniversary there at the hospital on Feb 20.   His blended family includes two biological daughters, Kara and Alexandra Forrester, and three step-daughters Keisha Cowart, Kaci McDaniel, and Tiffany Rodriguez.   He also leaves behind a gaggle of seven grandchildren (the youngest, Ian, born on Monday March 27, 2017).

While we all miss Craig terribly, we are comforted by the fact that he chose when and how he wanted to leave us, and that he is no longer suffering any more pain.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 1pm, Saturday, April 1 at Mount Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church in Belmont, NC.   Visitation will be from 12:30 to 1pm, prior to the service.  There will be a reception at the church in the Fellowship Hall immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church 212 South Street, Belmont NC 28012.