Franklin Crites

The beloved Franklin "Buster" Delano Crites, 81, of Jackson lost his battle with Alzheimer's, but won his greatest victory Sunday, April 5, 2020, at The Villas of Jackson, surrounded by his family.

He was born Aug. 7, 1938, in Cape Girardeau and was the youngest son of Oscar and Edith Crites. He married Jeanne Watson on Dec. 26, 1959. They relocated to Carbondale, Illinois, in 1961, where they raised their family.

Frank was a proud and dedicated family man. He was steadfast in his faith in God. He was a bit of a prankster and loved a good joke. The best jokes always brought bouts of his joyful wheezing laughter. He had a soft spot for dogs and occasionally cats (which includes the cat he couldn't outrun on an evening jog). He would always say he "never wanted them," but he would always be the first to spoil them. He also loved University of Alabama football, NASCAR and horse racing.

He held many jobs in his lifetime. He worked as a systems analyst for the housing department at Southern Illinois University until his retirement. He was an active member of Maple United Methodist Church and sang in the choir with his beautiful baritone voice. He was a Navy veteran, past master of the Masonic Lodge and a hospice volunteer.

He is survived by his dedicated, loving wife, Jeanne Crites; sons, David (Laura) and Jeffery (Cindy) Crites; and granddaughters, Christine, Michelle, Kaitlyn and Rachel; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A small ceremony will be Thursday at Ford and Sons Funeral Home. A larger celebration of life will be planned once novel coronavirus restrictions are lifted.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations designated to the building fund at Maple United Methodist Church, 2441 Jean Ann Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.