Craig Steven Church

SOUTH PORTLAND – Craig Steven Church, a resident of South Portland, passed away at the age of 65 on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025. He was at home and surrounded by his beloved wife and children.

Born on May 28, 1960, Craig attended Deering High School in Portland, graduating in 1978. After a year at the University of Southern Maine, he pursued his own path.

Craig worked alongside his father for many years at Lopez and Church in Portland, then went on to co-found Church Office Equipment (COE) with his wife, Jewel, in 1991. COE became a leader in the Portland dictation equipment market for two decades. He was a top distributor for companies, receiving numerous sales awards. In 2007, Craig and Jewel sold COE. After building a portfolio of commercial properties over his career and consulting with his wife at JaMedia Inc., Craig found his true calling in real estate. Joining Magnusson Balfour in 2009, he quickly became an integral part of the team and eventually a partner. He specialized in commercial sales and leasing, business brokerage, and buyer representation. His top priority was always his clients – sharing his knowledge with generosity and integrity. Craig played a vital role in mentoring and supporting others, always ready to lend his expertise and guidance.

Craig’s love for his family was paramount. He cherished family vacations and most of all the Church family camp on Big Sebago, his favorite body of water. Summers were filled with laughter, projects, and mischievous July Fourth fireworks. He treasured early mornings canoe rides with his daughter, and cuddling with his son on the hammock. Craig always wanted to be on the water; with a beer in hand, fishing with his “lucky charm” wife, or playing tour guide for friends and family visiting.

Craig is survived by his wife, Jewel Meaux Church (originally from Ohio/Louisiana), his two children, Carissa Church and Jared Church. He is also survived by his siblings: Brian Church of Falmouth, Mass., Jeff Church and Lisa Church both of Windham, and Lori Gribbin of Portland, and their families, all of whom he adored.

The family invites you to a time of visitation on Friday August 22, from 9-11 a.m., immediately followed by a funeral at 11 a.m., at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St, Portland. A private committal service will take place at Evergreen Cemetery at a later date.

You may offer your condolences or share your memories at http://www.jonesrichandbarnes.com