Clarence Crittle Sr.

Clarence Crittle, Sr. was the only child of Janie and Cass Crittle, born in Alexandria, Louisiana. He attended public schools during his early years. As a young man, he married Clara Mae James (who is now deceased), and together they had two children: Clarence Crittle, Jr. (also deceased) and Odessa Crittle.

Clarence was drafted into the United States Army and was stationed at the Tuskegee Army Air Base in Alabama, where he received a World War II Victory Medal. After receiving an honorable discharge, he returned home. Seeking a better life, he left Alexandria with a relative and moved to California, while Clara did not join him.

In San Francisco, Clarence worked as a paint mixer for many years before seizing an opportunity to become a longshoreman. He eventually retired in San Francisco with his second wife, Bessie Crittle, to whom he was married for fifty-three years.

Clarence is survived by his beloved daughter, Odessa Cleveland, and his loving niece, Reva James-Frye. He also leaves behind several grandchildren from his son, Clarence, Jr.: Tracey Crittle-Bell, John Crittle (Deceased) Mary Crittle, Casandra Crittle-Sampract, Katrina Crittle, Sparkle Crittle-Thomas, and his daughter’s child, Darla Cleveland (who is deceased). Additionally, he is survived by a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, and beloved friends.