William Benjamin Craddock was born September 23, 1948 to Clarence Meril and Elnora Craddock in Kansas City, Missouri.

William was educated in the Kansas City, Missouri School District, graduating from Central High School in 1967.  While at Central, his love and family legacy of music, led him to form the singing group " The Citations ", which would later come to be known as " Down To Earth " ( DTE ) – one of the most dynamic singing groups in Kansas City.

Alongside his love of music and entertainment, William had a passion for cooking.  He worked and led kitchens in restaurants throughout the Country Club Plaza and his home was also known for good eating!  Everyone knew that when you came to his house, you would not leave hungry.  You were fed and served with love.

In 1978, he began working at the Kansas City Water Department.  During his time there, he achieved the position of General Supervisor and would later retire in 2003.

William's love for Christ began at an early age and he re-dedicated his life to Christ in 2005, uniting with Shalom Missionary Baptist Church.

In 1975, William met the love of his life Hattie and her infant son Marcus.  With him, he brought his three daughters – Tracy, Lisa and LaShanda.  William and Hattie's courtship continued until their marriage in 1979, which later extended their family with the births of Tia and William, Jr.

Preceding William in death were his parents; four brothers: Clarence, Edward "Red", James and Phillip; three sisters: Harriet "Dottie", Leta and Beulah.

William leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved wife Hattie of 41 years; six children: Tracy Craddock, Lisa Craddock, LaShanda Henderson (Robert), Marcus Jones, Tia Richardson (Therron) and William Craddock, Jr (Rhonda); three God children: Victoria Craddock, Christopher Allen and Nalyssia "Baby" Craddock; 16 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; three brothers: Kenneth, George (Isabel), Harry "Doc"; two sisters: Nina "T-Mite" (Rance) and Diane; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Services for Mr. Craddock will be held 11:00 A.M. Saturday, May 22, 2021, at Shalom Missionary Baptist Church.  Burial at Floral Hills Cemetery.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. ELEY & SONS FUNERAL CHAPEL.