Charlotte Anne Criste

Charlotte was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania on July 23, 1931 to Harold and Eleanor Waite. She attended Indiana State Teachers College (now University) and graduated with an Elementary Teaching Degree in 1953. She taught for four years before marrying the love of her life, Russell Criste. They were married for 50 years. Charlotte and Russ had five children: Jimmy Criste (Sue), Anne Cathey (Randy), Mary Genua, Joan Mandel (Glenn), and Rusty Criste (Tara). They have 16 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren with two more on the way!

Charlotte was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and the St. Jude guild. She loved crafting, knitting, and playing cards with her family. She was a huge Duke basketball fan, made a mean Apple Pie and never turned down a Hershey Kiss! Charlotte was a true friend with bright blue eyes, a quick smile, and an infectious laugh. She was the kindest person we knew. She loved us well and we will miss her dearly.

The family would like to give special thanks to her devoted caregivers, Tara, Tonya, Tammy, and Ashley.

Charlotte's favorite charity was St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. We invite donations to be made in her honor to: www.stjude.org/donate or by mail to 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared below for the Criste family.