Gladys Ruth Criss

Gladys Ruth (David) Criss was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on New Year's Eve Day, December 31, 2024. Gladys was born May 3, 1955 in Detroit, the daughter of Walter and Marjorie (Jacobs) David and the sister to two older brothers. Gladys graduated from Harper Woods High School with the Class of 1973 and married Timothy Criss later that year on August 2, 1973.

Tim and Gladys had four children; Rebecca, Elizabeth, David, and Jason. Being a devoted mother was one of her greatest joys in life. She actively participated in church activities, particularly during her children’s younger years. After moving to the countryside, Gladys embraced homeschooling for her three youngest children while continuing to work part-time as a nurse, balancing her dedication to both family and career. She loved creating traditions for her children and grandchildren to enjoy year after year. She enjoyed her dachshunds, her coffee cake, and knew how to have a fun and light-hearted time. As a child of God, she was an avid prayer warrior for her family and for those she loved. Wealth to her was being surrounded by family with Christ at the center. Gladys cherished her family and friends and would visit them as often she could. More recently, she discovered joy in gardening, supporting her church family through various ministry activities within the local community, and even participating in a mission trip where she served meals at a children’s camp.

Gladys graduated from Detroit Practical School of Nursing with her LPN nursing degree in 1977. Throughout her life, she was deeply compassionate, dedicating herself to caring for those in physical or spiritual pain and offering support to anyone in need during their most challenging times. Her nursing degree was put to good use in hospitals, nursing homes, home healthcare, and with her own family throughout the years. Her heart was for those she knew to love Jesus, and to care for their spiritual health as well as physical needs. In the last few years, she traveled to see her children and friends and was passionate about them all knowing the salvation message of Jesus.

Gladys leaves behind a legacy of kindness, hope, and creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. Her smile, laugh, and warm hugs will be forever missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched with her love.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Tim Criss; children, Rebecca (Troy) Nibbelink, Elizabeth (Matt) Haas, David (Sarah) Criss, and Jason (Blessing) Criss; grandchildren, Olivia, Madeline, Estee, Chloe, Harper, Caden, Owen, Evan, Emily, Benjamin, and Charlotte; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Reunited with her in Heaven are her parents, Walter and Marjorie (Jacobs) David; brother, Walter David II; and many friends and family members.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at Caro First Baptist Church in Caro with Pastor Marc Herron officiating. Gladys’ family will be present to receive friends at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at noon. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family, c/o Timothy Criss, 523 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723.