J.C. Criss

J.C. Criss was born on September 4, 1933, in Wilson, Arkansas, to the late Robert Criss and Corrine Patterson-Criss. From a young age, J.C. experienced life on the move. After the passing of his mother during his childhood, he traveled alongside his father, Robert Criss, learning resilience and strength early in life. During times when he was not traveling, J.C. was lovingly raised by his grandfather, Ben Patterson, and his uncle, Albert Patterson, his mother's brother.

J.C. began working at an early age and built a strong work ethic that stayed with him throughout his life. He dedicated many years to cement and construction work, including employment with Sjostrom Construction and later Rockford Blacktop Construction, where he eventually retired. J.C. loved cement work and for a while had his own side construction business (J.C. Construction) and took pride in honest work to friends and family in the Rockford area, and the life he built through dedication and perseverance.

J.C. was a man of style and personality. He loved fashion, always dressing sharp, and enjoyed reminiscing about the good times from his younger years. He had a special love for Cadillacs and was rarely seen without one of his favorite hats, both reflections of his timeless sense of class.

Most importantly, J.C.'s faith became a defining part of his later years. J.C. was baptized as a teen and again at age 90, at that time he fully gave his life to the Lord—a moment that brought peace, purpose, and deep meaning to his journey.

J.C. leaves to cherish his memories: his loving children, Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren, & one sister. He was preceded in death by his parents, one Aunt, two sisters, & two brothers, His legacy lives on through the stories he shared, the love he gave, and the lives he touched.

J.C. Criss will be remembered for his strength, his style, his stories, and his faith. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the Northern Illinois Hospice team, his loving sister, Linda Marks-Brown, daughter and caregiver, Janene Stephenson, daughters, Christelle, Kimberly and Crystal; son, Jerry and son-in-love and personal chef, Lynn Stephenson.

A funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 13, 2026 at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Rd, Machesney Park, IL 61115. Entombment at Sunset Memorial Gardens (Chapel of Love). In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.