James Criddle

James Dallas Criddle, 85, of Cape Girardeau passed away Sunday, July 24, 2022, at Southeast Hospital.

He was born Sept. 29, 1936, in Cape Girardeau to the late James Wade and Mable Irene Kester Criddle.

James was a 1954 graduate of Cape Girardeau Central High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and proudly served his country. On Sept. 9, 1966, he married Judy Ethel Mae McCormick, and he gained two bonus daughters, Lisa (Russell) Boswell, and their children, Amanda (George) Bellefeuille and Leanna Grevillius; and Carol (Steve) Wegman and their children, Nicholas Hale, Brian and Timothy Wegman.

James retired from Drury Co. after 34 years of dedicated work. Six months after his retirement, he couldn't stand to not be working, so he went to work for V.I.P. Industries. He was there until an illness forced him to finally retire at the age of 83. From an early age, his parents instilled the value of hard work and a solid work ethic.

He enjoyed gardening, camping and was an avid Cardinals baseball fan. He was a member of Maple United Methodist Church.

Survivors include his wife, Judy Ethel Mae Criddle of Cape Girardeau; two bonus daughters; two daughters from their union, Juanita (Ron) Criddle Donner, and their son, Jamie Donner, and Barb (Tim) Criddle Pinkley, and their daughter, Michelle (Chris) Bauer; brother, Frank (Judy) Criddle; sisters, Barbara (John) Yallaly and Ethel Mize; and seven great-grandchildren.

James was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Paul Robert Criddle.

A private graveside service will be held.

The family plans to celebrate James's life at the Criddle family reunion at 11:30 a.m. Aug. 7 at Knights of Columbus Hall in Jackson.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.