Craig A. Filkins of New Bedford, MA, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the age of 50. Born on June 11, 1974, at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, ME, Craig was a quiet, kind, and gentle soul who touched the lives of many with his warmth and generosity.

Craig earned his Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Phoenix. For 31 years, he was a dedicated cook at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, where he took great pride in his work. He also shared his love of softball as an assistant coach for several years with the Bay State Girls Softball League.

A devoted son, brother, and friend, Craig is survived by his mother, Rosetta (Duarte) Filkins of New Bedford; his father, Leopold Filkins of New Bedford; his sister, Ashley (Vandiver) Holtkamp, and her husband, Christopher Holtkamp of West Newfield, ME. He is also survived by his best friends, Norman and Mary Jo Gomes of New Bedford, whom he considered family; his Godmothers, Erleen Duarte and Cheryl Duarte; as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and siblings.

Craig was preceded in death by his grandmother and the love of his life, Elizabeth Duarte; his grandfather, Frederick Filkins; his grandmother, Kilda Filkins; and his stepfather, Emory Vandiver.

He was an avid fan of WWF wrestling and all New England sports teams. Craig enjoyed building computers from scratch, playing video games, and listening to every genre of music. He loved helping his mother with house projects and cherished teaching his sister how to play softball.

Craig will be deeply missed by all who knew him. In his memory, donations may be made to the Epilepsy Foundation at https://fundraising.epilepsyfoundation.org.au/memorial-donation .

Per Craig's wishes, services will be held privately.