Michele Criswell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michele Criswell of Oak Ridge, TN on August 10, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with dementia.

She was born to Arthur Paul Marquardt and Pearl Elizabeth Gangwer in Oak Ridge, TN. They preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband, Dennis Criswell, her two daughters, Melanie Reed and Marcy (Gene) Cooper, her grandchildren, Leah Cooper, Sean Tucker Jr., Chris (Makenzie) Cooper, Hayley (Chad) Riffe, Jorden Reed, her great grandchildren, Aubree & Brantlee Caffee and Lennox Cooper, her two sisters, Adele Crabtree, Molly (Harold) Hayes, her sister in law Phyllis (Victor) Hearne and many nieces and nephews.

Michele’s professional journey began as a music teacher at a private school where she inspired students by sharing her love for music. She later offered private piano and flute lessons. She excelled in her role as an administrative assistant for several companies before retiring form Paccar Parts Division.

A woman of deep faith, Michele was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Jonesboro and later Pinecrest Baptist in Georgia before returning to her roots in Tennessee. She was known as “Granny Mac” by the church children. She shared the love of Jesus with all especially at church through Bible School, Bible Drills and several mission trips. She loved singing in the choir and playing her flute in the orchestra. She often reminded the grandchildren of the love of Jesus by saying, “I love you, but do you know who else loves you, Jesus does”.

In her leisure time, Michele found joy in sewing, crocheting, tatting, playing the piano, organ, flute, piccolo, and accordion. She enjoyed reading, playing Boggle, card games and spending time with family and friends.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the staff of the memory care unit of The Glen at Oak Ridge and to the Shalom Hospice for their care during Michele’s final days.

The funeral will be held from the Chapel of Evans Mortuary in Rockwood, TN on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 7:00 pm. Family will receive friends from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. The graveside service will be held at Anderson Memorial Gardens in Clinton, TN on Sunday August 17,2026 at 2:00pm. Evans Mortuary of Rockwood, Tennessee is honored to serve the family of Mrs. Michele Criswell.