In Memoriam: Mr. Mark Craddock (January 6, 1959 - June 1, 2023)

6/2/2023

With heavy hearts, Marist School mourns the loss of beloved band director Mr. Mark Craddock who passed away after a brief illness on June 1, 2023. A legendary member of Marist’s Fine Arts Department for over 30 years, Mr. Craddock arrived at Marist in August 1992, marking the beginning of an extraordinary musical journey for countless students and a lifetime of cherished memories for his colleagues. Through passion and dedication, he nurtured the talents of generations and leaves an indelible mark on the Marist community.

Mr. Craddock's generosity of time knew no bounds as he directed the various bands under his care including the vibrant Marching Band, Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Ensemble. His presence at sporting events meant that Marist athletic teams would surely achieve victory with the sound of the Marist fight song bellowing at their backs. He supported Marist theater, adding musical flair to more than 100 memorable productions over the years. His leadership and guidance were the driving force behind innumerable performances. He also volunteered for Marist’s Advancement Office encouraging fellow faculty and staff to contribute to the Annual Fund to help ensure the Marist mission that he believed in so fully would endure.

His unwavering commitment to excellence instilled discipline and a deep love for music in all who had the privilege of learning from him. For his compelling acts of service to Marist School, Mr. Craddock was named the recipient of the MacGinnitie Award for Innovation in 2008, which gave his colleagues the chance to publicly recognize his initiative and innovation that did so much to further the mission of the school. He also was recognized by Marist with the Goizueta Chair of Excellence in 2018 for his innovative teaching, high standards of professional development, promotion of cross-cultural understanding and global interest, and involvement in student extracurricular activities.

Beyond the music room, Mr. Craddock was integral in developing and leading Marist’s student exchange program, helping the school achieve the strategic priority of forming global-ready servant leaders by leveraging the international network of the Society of Mary and providing opportunities for students to practice and engage in constructive dialogue with people from different walks of life. His support fostered connections among students across continents. His involvement in the partnership between Marist School and a Marist school in Passau-Fürstenzell, Germany, brought cultural exchange and understanding to both communities. In recent years, he devoted time to working with former school president Fr. John H. Harhager, S.M., current vicar general for the Society of Mary, and other Marist priests in the hope of developing a student conference across Marist schools worldwide. This project was indicative of Mr. Craddock’s efforts to help Marist students connect with other parts of the world to create new personal and professional relationships.

When the Marist School community heard the news of Mr. Craddock’s illness, messages poured in from near and far. Video tributes for Mr. Craddock totaled nearly four hours long. The sentiments shared illustrated his unique ability to instill confidence in others and to create a haven of belonging for those who needed it most. Mr. Craddock’s impact in these ways will be felt for generations to come, and we are glad for the time granted to our school community to express our gratitude for him. Though we are deeply sad, we are comforted that he has returned home to the loving arms of our Heavenly Father.

Through beautiful music, tireless support of the exchange program, and irreplaceable relationships, Mr. Craddock transcended borders. He bridged the gap between different traditions and fostered a sense of unity among students from diverse backgrounds. He will forever be remembered as an inspiring educator, a gifted musician, and a dedicated mentor. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the music he brought to life. As we honor his memory, let us carry forward his passion, dedication, and unwavering belief in the power of music to inspire and unite us all and in the Marist mission that prepares students to lead compassionate lives of service.

The Funeral Mass will take place at the Cathedral of Christ the King on Friday, June 9 at 10 a.m. (2699 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30305). A reception will follow in Kenny Hall. For those unable to attend the Funeral Mass in person, a livestream is available and will remain online for several weeks following the service. If students, faculty, or staff need support during this time of grieving, the Marist counselors and campus ministers are available. Marist alumni may reach out to Fr. Mark Kenney, S.M. for pastoral care.

In lieu of flowers, Mr. Craddock has requested that donations be directed to Marist School. Donations will be used to honor Mr. Craddock’s legacy and service to the school by providing band student scholarships and other support for the band program. Checks may be made out to “Marist School” and mailed to 3790 Ashford Dunwoody Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30319. Gifts may also be made online at marist.com. Please write “Mark Craddock legacy donation” in the memo line or comments section of your gift.

Please join the Marist School community as we offer the following prayer for the repose of Mr. Craddock’s soul, and for his family, colleagues, and friends around the world:

Go forth, Christian soul, from this world

In the name of God, the almighty Father,

Who created you,

In the name of Jesus Christ, Son of the living God,

Who suffered for you,

In the name of the Holy Spirit,

Who was poured out upon you,

Go forth, faithful Christian.

May you live in peace this day,

May your home be with God in Zion,

With Mary, the Virgin Mother of God,

With Joseph, and all the Angels and Saints.