Craig Piagari, age 48, of Hermann, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on March 13, 1978, in New Jersey, Craig remained a proud New Jersey native throughout his life while embracing his home in Hermann. A dedicated and passionate educator, he served as a teacher and librarian at New Bloomfield R-III High School, instilling a lifelong love of reading and learning in his students.

Craig was an avid scholar. He earned dual Bachelor’s degrees in English and Education from Rutgers University, followed by Master’s degrees in English and Education and Innovation from Webster University and the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL). Demonstrating his continuous passion for communication and inclusion, he also earned specialized certifications in Sign Language. An aspiring author, Craig leaves behind two books currently in the process of being published.

Outside the classroom, Craig cherished the quiet beauty of his farm and caring for his trees. Above all his achievements, however, his greatest joy was his family, and he was most proud of his cherished title of “Pops.”

Craig was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Nicolena Piagari and Mary June Ayres, and his grandfathers, Wally Piagari and Kenneth Ayres.

He is survived by his loving life partner of 22 years, Audrey Zoe Connell; his mother and stepfather, Mary and John Hegyi; his father, Richard Piagari; his daughter, Audieleigh Perniciaro Karcher (Daniel); and his beloved grandson, Atticus Perniciaro Karcher.

Services & Memorials

Visitation and memorial services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

• St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

• The National Wildlife Federation

• The Hunger Site

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