Eric Kendall McCraney Sr

Eric Kendall McCraney Sr. was born on June 23, 1957, in Clarksdale, Mississippi, to Ozzie Lee Thomas and Georgia Mae McCraney. He attended Immaculate Conception Catholic School from 1st-12th grade, graduating in 1974. During his youth, Eric was a proud member of the Boy Scouts. Known as “Erc” in his youth. “Erc”, was the family jokester, often sneaking pranks on his siblings and cousins. He was known to be an adventurous child, yet deeply protective and nurturing. 

Shortly after graduation, in 1974, Eric enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served as a weatherman, until 1976. After his military service, he pursued higher education at California State University-Northridge, and Long Beach City College, where he earned his Associate of Arts degree. He also received his Vocational Nursing diploma from St. Francis Career College.

In 1976, Eric moved to California, where he met and later married Beverly Ann Denton. From this union, three children were born: Eric McCraney Jr., Djuan McCraney, and Destiney McCraney. He was also the proud father of Tameka Pickens, Daya Washington, and Erica McCraney. Eric was a deeply devoted father and grandfather. 

Eric lived a life full of passion and adventures. He earned a black belt in Karate and once held the title of “Mr. Inglewood,” as a bodybuilder. He loved roller skating, being a disc jockey, photographer, and he had a devout love for riding motorcycles. He was a member of The Brothers of the Sun, and Great Kings of Africa motorcycle clubs. Though he lived with the spirit of an athlete and adventurer, Eric never lost touch with his playful side. To his children, nieces, and nephews, he was a father figure, always creating memories through pool parties, skate outings, theme parks, and camping in the backyard.

Eric’s family was always at the center of his heart. He nurtured long-standing traditions with his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Eric loved his sisters and brother deeply and cherished the bond they shared throughout his life. Eric and Essie even spoke with each other every single day on his way to work. Eric had a determined spirit and a drive that inspired everyone around him. Whatever he set his mind to, he accomplished with persistence and faith. This determination became one of the greatest lessons he passed on to his children. Eric had a special bond with his mother-in-law, Sammie Lee Denton, whom he loved as his own, and close ties with his extended family and friends.

Professionally, Eric was a successful real estate agent with Beacon Properties, where he soared as the top agent. He went on to finish his real estate career with Century 21. Eric left the field of real estate to become successful in the field of Health and Safety. He became a Safety Manager for Creation World, Inc., where he found fulfillment until his health began to decline.

Spiritually, Eric accepted his calling as an evangelist at Grace Memorial Baptist Church in Long Beach and later served in the Brotherhood at Antioch Church of Long Beach under Pastor Wayne Chaney Jr. In his later years, he worshiped faithfully at Abundant Living Family Church in Rancho Cucamonga, California.

On August 6, 2025, Eric Kendall McCraney, Sr. gained his heavenly wings at the age of 68. Eric’s life was one of service, strength, humor, and love. Eric will be forever remembered for his big heart, his strength, and his unwavering faith. Though often misunderstood, he was a kind and giving man who carried both a tough exterior and a deeply caring soul. Even in the hospital, he found ways to bring laughter to those around him. 

Eric’s life was one of service to his country, devotion to his family, and dedication to his faith. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose adventurous spirit, sense of humor, and compassionate heart will live on in all who knew him. 

Eric was preceded in death by his parents, Ozzie Lee Thomas and Georgia Mae McCraney, as well as two older brothers: Leroy Thomas, and Shelly McCraney. He leaves to cherish his memory with his loving sisters, Essie Wilson of Rialto, California, and Olga Bridgeforth of Clarksdale, Mississippi; his children Eric Jr. (Yasmin), Djuan, Destiney, Tameka, Daya, and Erica; his seven grandchildren Keara LeBlanc, Jeremy Thompson, Eric McCraney III, Djuan Aqueel McCraney, Xander Reed, Michael Burks III, and Madison Burks; five great-grandchildren; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, family, and friends who loved him dearly.

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