Very Reverend Michael Craig Scott, 61, Remembered by Diocese of Alexandria

The Diocese of Alexandria is mourning the death of Very Reverend Michael Craig Scott, a respected Catholic priest, spiritual leader, and Vicar General who passed away on November 4, 2026, at the age of 61.

Known to many as Father Craig, he devoted three decades to ordained ministry, serving parishes, schools, and diocesan leadership in Louisiana. His passing has brought sadness to fellow clergy, parishioners, colleagues, friends, and members of the wider Catholic community.

The Diocese of Alexandria announced his death on November 5, describing him as a colleague and friend whose presence would be deeply missed.

Early Life and Education

Michael Craig Scott was born on April 12, 1965, in Natchitoches, Louisiana. He was raised in Immaculate Conception Parish and attended St. Mary’s School before graduating in 1983.

He continued his education at Northwestern State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1987. Before entering Notre Dame Seminary, he worked in admissions at Northwestern State University and at the Louisiana School of Math, Science and the Arts in Natchitoches.

His journey toward priesthood culminated in his ordination for the Diocese of Alexandria on June 1, 1996.

Three Decades of Priestly Service

Throughout his 30 years of ordained ministry, Father Craig served in several parishes and leadership positions across the Diocese of Alexandria.

His parish assignments included serving as parochial vicar at Our Lady of Prompt Succor in Alexandria and pastor of Mater Dolorosa Church in Plaucheville, St. Rita’s Church in Alexandria, and St. James Memorial Church in Alexandria.

He also held numerous diocesan responsibilities, including chaplain and president of Holy Savior Menard Central High School, chair of the Diocesan Committee on Evangelization, head of the Office for Life and Justice, Vicar for Clergy, Moderator of the Curia, and ultimately Vicar General.

His work reflected a long commitment to pastoral care, church leadership, and the spiritual life of the communities he served.

Personal Details

Death and Obituary Details

Family and Those He Leaves Behind

Father Craig was preceded in death by his parents, Shirley and Eugene Scott Jr.

He is survived by his sister, Sadie Scott Bange, and her husband, Michael; his brother, Eugene Whitcomb Scott III, and his wife, Kelli; his nephew, Zachary Scott; his nieces, Alexandra Scott and Kylie Scott; and Kirk A. Kelley, a special family friend.

His fellow priests will serve as pallbearers, reflecting the close bonds he shared with members of the clergy.

A Message of Remembrance

Bishop Robert Marshall remembered Father Craig as a priest with the heart of a pastor, highlighting his ability to listen, encourage, console, and inspire those around him.

The bishop also described him as a significant presence in the diocese, known for kindness, humor, and his ability to bring people together.

Those words reflect the lasting influence Father Craig had on parishioners, fellow priests, and the many people who encountered him throughout his ministry.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

The Diocese of Alexandria has announced the following arrangements:

• Visitation: Friday, November 6, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Kramer Funeral Home, 2905 Masonic Drive, Alexandria, Louisiana.

• Holy Rosary: Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, 626 Fourth Street, Alexandria.

• Mass of Christian Burial: Saturday, November 7, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, with Bishop Robert Marshall officiating.

• Burial: Catholic Cemetery in Natchitoches, Louisiana, following the funeral Mass.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Catholic Charities of Central Louisiana.

A Lasting Legacy of Faith and Service

Very Reverend Michael Craig Scott’s passing marks the loss of a priest whose ministry extended across parishes, schools, and leadership roles within the Diocese of Alexandria.

For three decades, he served people through faith, pastoral care, and commitment to the Church. As fellow clergy and parishioners prepare to say their final goodbyes, his legacy will remain in the lives he touched and the communities he served.

Disclaimer

This obituary is based on the official announcement from the Diocese of Alexandria and published funeral information. The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. Funeral arrangements and biographical details are presented as published by the diocese and funeral home.