Jeanne Crites

The beloved Jeanne Ellen Watson Crites, 82, of Jackson was called home Thursday, July 8, 2021, at Saint Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau, surrounded by family.

She was born in Cape Girardeau and was the youngest daughter of William and Flora Watson. Shortly after she and Frank Crites were married, they relocated to Carbondale, Illinois, where they raised their family. They were married for 60 years before his passing in April 2020.

Jeanne was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. She had a servant's heart and had an unwavering love and faith in God. She had an obsession for dogs and birds. She was an amazing seamstress, artist and organizer. She had an incredible smile and laugh, and loved spending time with her family and friends, especially her granddaughters.

Jeanne was a member of Maple United Methodist Church. She was an active member in all of the churches she attended throughout her lifetime, and was a former Eastern Star member.

Jeanne held many jobs throughout her working career. She retired from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale in 2002. After her retirement, she served as a hospice volunteer for several years.

Jeanne was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank; her parents; and all her siblings.

She is survived by her two sons, David (Laura) and Jeffery (Cindy); her four granddaughters, Christine, Michelle (Patrick), Kaitlyn and Rachel (Lane); as well as several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

The funeral service will follow starting at noon Saturday at the funeral home. Entombment will be at the Cape County Memorial Park Mausoleum.

A memoriam donation suggestion is Maple United Methodist Church (designated to the building fund), 2441 Jean Ann Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701.

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