Gregory Scott Cranford was born on July 25, 1960, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, one of three children born to Ilar Cranford and Arlene (Burden) Cranford. He lived by a simple mantra: try everything at least once and “Don’t stay shitty for too long.” With an open heart and a quick smile, Greg embraced new adventures, loved telling jokes, and had a gift for making those around him laugh.
He was blessed with two children and shared many happy years with them. He cherished the rugged simplicity of tent camping, taking his family to his property in Gladwin where they gathered around campfires, explored the outdoors, and built lasting memories. Greg had a deep love for music and was often heard singing karaoke, especially his favorite, Frank Sinatra’s “My Way.” Though he had no formal training, he possessed a remarkable ability to build, repair, or rig just about anything. In later years he found joy in gardening, tending flower beds that brightened his yard, even as his attempts to grow fruit trees in Michigan’s unpredictable weather became a gentle source of family laughter.
Greg also delighted in watching B-horror movies, telling scary stories, and playing harmless tricks on his grandchildren. Halloween was his favorite time of year. He passed away at the age of 65 on March 14, 2026, at his daughter’s home in Newport, preceded in death by his father.
He is survived by his mother, Arlene; his children, John (Sharie) Cranford and Jennifer (Shad) Savino; his brother, Curt (Maryanne) Cranford; his sister, Brenda Beck; four grandchildren, Devon, Madison, Grace, and Emma; and his loyal dog, Tank.
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