John William Cramer, a devoted husband, father and grandfather, skilled businessman and craftsman, dedicated missionary, and accomplished runner, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2024, at the age of 98. Born on December 27, 1925 in Clark, Illinois, he lived a life devoted to perfecting the art of engineering and design, in service to others, and with a deep love for family and community.
Growing up on a farm in rural Illinois, John learned the values of hard work and self-reliance early on. The second of four children born to William “Bill” and Amy Cramer, his childhood was filled with the rhythms of farm life, family bonds, and a lifelong appreciation for the
outdoors. He often regaled his grandchildren with stories of his youth, and delighted in remembering his early days of farming, hunting, and building a barn with his father. After serving his country in the Army Air Forces during World War II, he attended the University of Illinois, where he pursued a degree in electrical engineering. Later he completed his MBA at Washington University is St Louis, Missouri. His natural aptitude for math and problem-solving set the foundation for a successful career in engineering. His work brought him
to Florence, Alabama, after time in Texas, Missouri and Georgia. He was the General Plant Manager at the United States Steel/LaRoche Agri-Chemical plant in Cherokee for twenty-plus years until his retirement. He built a house for his family on Wilson Lake, and lived there happily for the next fifty-two years. Beyond his professional life, John had many passions. As a gifted woodworker, he created
beautiful pieces that reflected his meticulous craftsmanship and love for the art. Beyond his design and creation of furniture for the house, and wooden toys for his grandchildren, he worked tirelessly to design and build cabinetry, a stage, tables, risers and other needed items for his local church, Woodmont Baptist, serving the Lord through his craftsmanship and imprinting his place in the heart of the congregation. His woodworking projects were cherished by family and friends and served as lasting testaments to his skill and patience.
In his forties he took up running, a pursuit that became a lifelong passion. He competed in road races well into his later years, setting state records in the 10K and 5K in his age division on numerous occasions and inspiring those around him with his dedication and commitment to his pursuit of excellence. Starting in 1996, he embarked on many mission trips, over multiple decades, traveling to Brazil,
Ghana, and Guatemala. His missionary work involved building schools, churches, and community centers, and his efforts left a lasting impact on countless communities. Through these experiences, he shared not only his skills but also his warmth and generosity with those in need.

He is survived by his loving wife, Charlotte Whirley Cramer, children by (Lorene Miller Cramer), David Cramer (Mary Jo), Suzanne Carter (Mike), James Cramer, and stepsons David Jamieson (Marissa), Drew Jamieson (Lisa), and Daniel Jamieson (Abbe), and numerous grandchildren, including; Ryan Cramer, Nic Cramer, Audrey Carter, Riley Carter, Erin Carter, Cade Jamieson, Edan Jamieson, Sam Jamieson, Jack Jamieson, Kalie Jamieson, Jake Palacios, Karlee Jamieson, Kate Jamieson, Riley Jamieson, Jonah Jamieson, and Maddie Jamieson and great grandchild Henry Cramer. All will remember him for his wisdom, warmth, and boundless kindness.

He is preceded in death by his beloved first wife, Lorene Miller Cramer, his parents William and Amy Cramer, and his siblings Mac Cramer, Johanna Somers and Caroline Wagner.

A service to honor John’s life and legacy will be held at Woodmont Baptist Church on Saturday, November 16, 2024. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, with the service to follow at noon. Officiating will be Dr. Chad Hess, senior pastor at Woodmont Baptist Church. The burial will take place at Tri-Cities Memorial Gardens following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in his memory to the Woodmont Baptist Church Missions or Building Funds (2001 Darby Drive, Florence, Alabama 35630) reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping others.

John’s life was a testament to love, service, and an unbreakable spirit. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who were fortunate to know him.