When Rolan Craig passed away Tuesday morning, the Manzanola community and the Arkansas Valley lost a rare treasure. At 109, Mrs. Craig was the oldest resident in Otero County and was witness to a wealth of history. She was born in 1898, the same year the U.S. annexed the Hawaiian Islands, Pepsi-Cola was officially named and the Treaty of Paris was signed ending the Spanish-American War.

Shirley Adams, Manzanola mayor commented Wednesday evening, "We're all proud to have had her as a Manzanola citizen."

Mrs. Craig was born July 1, 1898 in Ardmore, Okla. Her parents, Henry and Clara Dixon brought the family to Manzanola in 1916 in a covered wagon where the family settled in a non-irrigated area known
as “The Dry” south of town. Mrs. Craig attended school in Manzanola and graduated in 1923. She was later married to Harvey Craig who served in World War I. He preceded her in death in 1971.

Mrs. Craig lived alone until 1998 when she moved in with her daughter, Alice McDonald. She had another daughter, Flora, living in California, and a son, Harvey, Jr., who died in 1996. She had eight grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Mrs. Craig’s family says they are unsure why she lived so long but attribute it to her healthy lifestyle, she never drank or smoked, and her positive outlook on life.

"She was a very caring lady and a strong woman," says Patty Cardenas, friend and member of the Manzanola community.

Leona Turner decorated Mrs. Craig’s birthday cake every year and recalls how sharp she continued to be as she approached 110, "Even though she couldn't see very well, she could remember anyone who walked in her door by hearing their voice; she had an amazing memory, and so much knowledge."

Turner also commented on the impact Mrs. Craig had on the community, "When we were planning the Manzanola All-School Reunion we were discussing community members, and everyone there had a kind remark about her, regardless of their generation."

"I didn't know her very well, but it was obvious she was always willing to help people," added Art Lucero, Manzanola resident.

A life as long and full and rich as Mrs. Craig’s certainly impacted the community and her absence leaves a void felt by many.

"I know she's in heaven now and walking around happy," says Turner.