David Len "Butch" Craven

David Len Craven, lovingly known as "Butch" by his family and close friends, passed away on June 9, 2026, at a local hospital. He was 65 years old.

Born on July 9, 1960, David was a lifelong resident of Huntington, Texas, a community he proudly called home throughout his life.

David graduated from Huntington High School in 1978 and soon began a career as a welder with Lufkin Industries Trailer Division. Through hard work, dedication, and loyalty, he remained with the company for 42 years before retiring at the age of 60. David never sought awards, recognition, or attention for his accomplishments. He simply believed in showing up, doing his job well, and taking care of himself.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Jay Bruce Hess, Sr. and Sue Sheffield Hess of Huntington; his father, Curtis David Craven of Zavalla; his sister, Sherri Hess of Lufkin; and his nephew, J.B. Hess.

He is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Lesa and Greg Burch of Lufkin; his sister and brother-in-law, Cindy and Billy Jack Durham of Huntington; and his brother and sister-in-law, Jay Hess, Jr. and Robyn Hess of Alvarado.

He is also survived by his nieces, Angie Williams of Lufkin, Nicole Sifford of Jasper, and Mandy Thom of Alvarado; his nephews, Don Harris, David Grant Harris, Ryan Durham, Rodney Durham, and Cullen Brock, all of Huntington; Dalton Brock and Remington Brock of Portsmouth, Virginia; and Adam Hess of Alvarado. He also leaves behind numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and many friends, including special friends Shirley Meadows and Billy and Frankie Self.

As a child, David treasured time spent with family at Boykin Springs, where days were filled with camping, fishing, and cooking over an open fire. Those early experiences fostered a lifelong love of the outdoors. As a young man, he enjoyed spending time on Lake Sam Rayburn and along the Texas coast, fishing and camping with Shelia, whom he loved deeply.

David worked hard and lived a simple life. He valued his privacy, stayed true to himself, and never worried about keeping up with trends or meeting the expectations of others. One of the lessons he quietly taught those around him was, "Don't worry about what others have or what others think. Do it your way."

In later years, David found peace on his land. He enjoyed riding his four-wheeler, making improvements to his property, tending to the pond he was especially proud of, and spending time at the home he loved. He appreciated a life of solitude and was happiest in the comfort of familiar places.

Those who knew him best describe him as loyal, independent, and content with a simple life. Though he often kept to himself, he was a steady and dependable presence to those who loved him. He lived life on his own terms, held no ill will toward anyone, and asked very little from others.

Family members remember one of his favorite sayings: "Well, it had to be said."

To the younger members of the family, he was simply Uncle Butch.

David's legacy is one of hard work, loyalty, self-reliance, and authenticity.

He leaves behind a family who loved him deeply and countless memories of a man who never pretended to be anything other than himself.

For those who loved him most, the hardest part is knowing that Uncle Butch is no longer just down the road for a visit or a conversation.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the nurses, physicians, and staff of CHI St. Luke's Health and Woodland Heights Medical Center for the care, compassion, and comfort they provided David.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Carroway Funeral Home. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made in David's memory to the charity of the donor's choice.

Memories and condolences may be added at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.