J. D. Craddock III was born and raised in Munfordville, Kentucky. He attended Munfordville School and graduated in 1960.
In 1964, J. D. Craddock III received his Bachelor of Science and in 1965 his Bachelor of Science Agriculture, both from the University of Kentucky.
J. D. Craddock III received his Juris Doctorate in 1967 also from the University of Kentucky and he was admitted into the practice of law in 1968.
J. D. Craddock III returned to Munfordville, Kentucky and set up private practice in 1968.
From 1974 through 1976, J. D. Craddock III served as Assistant County Attorney and from 1976 through 1977 as Assistant Commonwealth Attorney.
Beginning on January 1, 1978 through December 31, 2002, J. D. Craddock III served as Hart County Attorney.
After his 25 years of service as Hart County Attorney, J. D. Craddock III once again established a private practice.
