Patricia Criss

Patricia Potter Criss, 89, 39, passed away peacefully on Wednesday April 5, 2017 at Hospice of East Texas in Tyler, Texas surrounded by her three loving daughters. She was born on March 17, 1928 in New Brunswick, New Jersey and was preceded in death by her parents, James Harold Potter and Mary Delaney Potter, brother, Jim Potter, and her husband of 49 years, E. Richard Criss. Jr. Born on St. Patrick’s Day, Patricia (known to her many friends as “Pat”) breathed a uniquely vibrant life as rare as a four-leaf clover. She always brought a bright smile into every room. Her vocation as a teacher moved her from New Jersey to Hawaii where a blind date with a young handsome marine, Richard Criss, was the beginning of a wonderful love story. She had a wonderful, blessed life as a wife, mother, grandmother, avid golfer, pet lover and friend in Texas. She volunteered in numerous community organizations in Austin, Texas, including her 20 years with the Seton Hospital Auxiliary. Working part time at a veterinary clinic for several years gave her almost as much joy as it did the animals. She was an active member and officer for the Onion Creek Women's Golf Association, and participated in numerous community choirs including "The Kitchen Band" at Brookdale Assisted Living Center in San Marcos, Texas. She was dedicated to her role as mother (however, that did not include a passion for cooking), and instilled in her children an intense love of God and devotion to family. She treasured God's love, the Catholic Church, her marriage, her children and grandchildren. Patricia is lovingly remembered by her three surviving daughters, Mila Hightower of Tyler, Texas, Maureen Mathis & husband Charlie of Arlington, TX and Kathy Barker & husband Gerald of Katy, TX. Continuing her legacy, she is survived by seven grandchildren: Erin Hightower Richter, Katie Hightower Bird, Kelley Mathis Dowling, Kevin Mathis, Shannon Mathis, Criss Barker and Rylie Barker. The family sends heartfelt thanks to the caring staff of Hospice of East Texas, Prestige Estates in Tyler, and Brookdale Assisted Living in San Marcos. Their love and compassion over the past several years was a tremendous blessing to both Pat and her family. Memorials can be made to the Alzheimer's Alliance of Smith Cty, 211 Winchester Dr., Tyler, TX 75701, PATH- People Attempting to Help, 402 W. Front St., Tyler, TX 75702, or The Hospice of East Texas Foundation, 4111 University Blvd., Tyler, TX 75702.

Patricia Criss

March 17, 1928 - April 5, 2017