Karen Helen Criswell

Karen Helen Criswell passed away on August 15, 2024 at the age of 76 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born in Robstown, Texas on June 11, 1948, to the late Jerome and Helen Pavelka. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Karen is reunited with her parents, mother in law Jo Ellen Criswell and her beloved husband of 42 years, Gary Jo Criswell.

She was a loving mother, Nan and sister. Karen worked as a teacher with Calallen ISD for over thirty years and proudly gained retirement in 2000. She continued her gift of teaching while working for Sylvan Learning Center for over ten years after retirement. Nothing gave Karen more joy than traveling with her mother and sister-in-law, Beverly to Alaska. She was able to visit Europe many times and her last trip was to Hawaii. Karen was a dedicated member of River Hills Baptist Church. She instilled her love for Christ in her family and her legacy will live on in them.

Karen loved to reminisce about her childhood and her college days with Joyce Danysh, Wilma Avant and Carolyn Brieden. She also cherished her weekend with Katie Pyle last summer.

Karen is survived by her father-in-law, W.B. Criswell. She leaves her loving memories to her children, Karalynn Nicole Petrus (Will), Tammy Kay DeSpain (Aaron), Bradley Jo Criswell (Leann); grandchildren, Hannah Petrus, William Petrus (Adelyn Neblett), Walker DeSpain, HunterKay DeSpain, Lainey DeSpain, Kyle Criswell, LilyAnn Criswell; her brother Jerry Pavelka (Beverly). She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Nurse Ashley from Christus Hospice for her help and kindness during Karen’s final days and to Aunt Beverly Pavelka and Kim Graley for their presence and emotional support.

Family will receive friends at River Hills Baptist Church on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. A Funeral Service will begin at 10:00 a.m. that same morning. She will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery in Robstown, Texas.

To offer your condolences and share fond memories please view and sign her online guestbook at www.memorygardensfuneralhome.com