Etter Doris Criswell

Etter Criswell lived a life full of love, laughter, and faith. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister whose presence made every room warmer. Her unwavering spirit was a source of strength to her family and a blessing to her community.

Etter’s proudest joy was being a mother. She raised her children; Richard, Sandra, Robert, Brian, and Victor Cummings with love, and a firm foundation of family values. Though she now rejoins her daughter Sandra in heaven, her children and family will continue to feel her guidance and love in every season of their lives.

Her greatest gift was the legacy of family she leaves behind. She built a village of grandchildren, Mike, Jre, Danielle, Gabrial, Brandon, Jamila, Yaminah, Hadiyah, Babyboy, Robert Jr., Brittany, Chantelle, Breanna, and Josh. An ever-growing circle of great-grandchildren. To them, she was more than a grandmother; she was a storyteller, a teacher, a voice, and a safe place to land.

Etter also cherished her siblings deeply. She leaves behind her sisters, Gertie Roger Toney and Verlee Criswell Jr., whom she took care of until her last day on this earth, while joining in heaven her beloved sisters Dorris Pattie Ann, Betty Jean, Lorraine, and Betty Sue, along with their parents Susie Criswell and Verlee Criswell Sr.

She will forever be remembered not for what she had, but for the love she gave, her open door that brought everyone to the table, her laughter that lit up family gatherings, because if Etter was laughing you know it was a good time, and her words of enthusiasm and encouragement that lifted weary spirits.

Her legacy of love, strength, joy, and generosity will continue to live on through every child, grandchild, great-grandchild, and friend whose life she touched. She leaves behind not just memories, but a blueprint of faith and family that will carry on for generations.