Elda Frances Criswell Obituary (1920 - 2024)

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Elda Frances Criswell. She was born in Bethany, MO to Roy Fordyce and Goldie (Nighthart) Fordyce. Frances was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and friend to all whose lives she touched. She is now in the arms of her Lord. Our mother was a woman of many talents, one of which was her incredible skill as a hairdresser. Throughout her life, mom transformed countless lives with her faith and magical touch, making people not just look good but also feel good about themselves. Mom was a master of her craft, and her passion for her work was evident in her unwavering commitment to her clients, many of whom became lifelong friends. With mom's life starting on a family farm, she learned the value of hard work and love of nature, her vegetable and flower gardens reflected that. When gardening was done for the day she continued her hard work ethics within the home. One example of this would be the hand made quilts she made with love for her family members. Formally of Marshall, MO were she owned and operated her businesses for thirty plus years, after selling her businesses and retiring, they moved to Russellville, AR in February of 1998. She was the matriarch of our family, and our rock. Left to cherish her memory are her 3 children, JoAnn Whitney (Kelly), Marie Jackson, Olen Criswell (Jan), twelve grandchildren, twenty seven great grandchildren, 8 great great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Mom was predeceased by her beloved husband, Ralph Criswell, and her parents, Roy and Goldie Fordyce, her son Leroy and wife (Janice), 3 sisters and 2 brothers. Despite her loss, mom remained strong, her faith and enduring spirit is a shining example to all who knew her. No one could deny her beautiful smile, and to quote her grandchildren “she is my inspiration” she will be deeply missed by all. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the church of your choice or Gideon Bible. We invite you to share your memories of Elda and upload photos to her memorial page. Your stories and pictures will serve as a tribute to her remarkable life and help us all remember the wonderful times we shared with her.