Craig Leighton Amacker

Craig Leighton Amacker, 71, of Madisonville, Louisiana, passed away on August 28, 2026.

Craig was born at Baptist Hospital in New Orleans and raised in Algiers, a New Orleans boy through and through. He was the son of the late Forest Edgar Amacker and Margaret Durkes.

Craig is survived by his children, Raven Carrine Amacker and Clint Forrest Amacker; his brothers, Keith Amacker, Scott Amacker, and Brian Amacker; his sister, Jan Waters; and his lifelong friend, Jeanne Comeaux. He leaves behind a family who will forever carry his stories, his humor, and the unmistakable personality that made Craig, Craig.

Throughout his life, Craig worked in several industries, including on oil rigs, but one of the accomplishments he was most proud of was being in charge of the oil exhibit at the 1984 Louisiana World Exposition in New Orleans. He later spent many years working as a towboat dispatcher before finishing his career with the New Orleans-Baton Rouge Steamship Pilots Association.

But a résumé could never adequately describe Craig.

He was, without question, one of the funniest people in any room he walked into. He was quick-witted, opinionated, larger than life, and completely unapologetic about the things—and the people—he loved. If Craig loved you, you knew it. And if he had an opinion, you probably knew that too.

Craig was also a lifelong and fiercely loyal New Orleans Saints fan. He loved his Saints through winning seasons, losing seasons, and everything in between. His loyalty never depended on the scoreboard. He was New Orleans to his core, and being a Saints fan wasn’t something he simply did—it was part of who he was. 

Craig leaves behind countless stories, laughs, memories, and a personality that will be impossible to replace. Those who knew him will remember his humor, his loyalty, his stubbornness, his love for New Orleans, and his ability to make an impression wherever he went.

In accordance with Craig’s wishes, he will be cremated. He did not want a traditional funeral. Instead, his family will honor him with a celebration of life—a gathering meant to celebrate Craig exactly as he lived: with stories, laughter, love, and the people who knew him best. Details for his celebration of life will be shared at a later date.