Family Log-In

Click Here

Mary Alice Criswell “MeMe” died peacefully in her daughter’s home on January 14, 2018 in Rossville, TN due to complications from congestive heart failure. Her family was by her side—she was 86. MeMe, as she was lovingly known, spoke of being ready to be with the Lord.

Mrs. Criswell was born on May 7, 1931 in Beebe, AR. She moved to Dyess Colony, Mississippi County, AR with her family in 1937 where she graduated from Dyess High School in 1949. She married Flavos T. Criswell on April 14, 1950. They then moved to Memphis, TN where Flavos began his lifelong career with Williams Equipment and Supply Company and where Mary dedicated her life to her family as wife and mother of three children. Mary was an active and doting mother whose responsibilities included caring for her special needs son, Donnie. In 1968, Donnie moved to Arlington Developmental Center (ADC) ushering in a new chapter in Mary’s life. She became a volunteer and prominent advocate at ADC—her actions giving voice to the residents. She spent thousands of hours working to improve the quality of life for the residents and employees of ADC. Mary was a charter member of the Parent Guardian Association (PGA), chaired countless fundraising events, hosted annual holiday parties, and even ensured the halls of ADC were decorated to match the season. Employees looked forward to the incredible bargains to be had at Gifts and Goodies, Mary’s resale shop operated on premises at ADC. All merchandise re-sold at Gifts and Goodies were donated items. Mary orchestrated the donations by turning her carport into a sorting and tagging station. Each week she happily manned the display counter and cash register with all proceeds going to ADC. In 2006, Mary was recognized for her passion for helping others as a Memphis Magazine “50 Women who Make a Difference.” Mary stepped aside from her work at ADC in 2008 and dedicated her remaining time to caring for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as developing a knack for stamping BINGO cards. Mrs. Criswell is preceded in death by her parents, John Wesley and Wilma “Bill” Angeline McAfee; her brothers, Jimmie and Delbert Lee McAfee. Mrs. Criswell is survived by her husband of 67 years, Flavos; her daughter, Tommie Criswell; sons, John Criswell (Lauren); and Donnie Criswell. She is also survived by granddaughters Joy Moore (Zack) and Mary Grace Criswell; grandsons; Jay Simon (Nadia), Trey Hamlet, Blake Criswell, and Caleb Criswell; as well as great-grandchildren, Luke, Emmie, and Lily Moore, Derek and Luca Simon, and Brandt Hamlet. A Visitation will take place on Saturday, January 20, 2018 from 5pm to 7pm and a Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, January 21, 2018 at 11 a.m. with a private burial to follow. All are welcome to join the family at the Visitation as well as the Celebration of Life—both will take place at Forest Hill Funeral Home & Memorial Park East on Whitten Road. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.