James Anthony Criswell

The Reverend James Anthony Criswell, aged 59, passed away on June 30, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, and friend, Anthony lived his life with an unwavering commitment to his faith, his family, and ministering to his community.

Born on October 14, 1966, Anthony grew up in LaGrange, Georgia, and was the son of the late James Taylor Criswell and Adelle Brown Criswell. Following his graduation from LaGrange High School, Anthony earned a Bachelor of Music Education from Columbus State University and a Master of Church Music from Samford University.

He was an accomplished organist, pianist, and singer, and he loved to use his God-given talents to serve the Lord.

In 1995, Anthony began working in music ministry at First Baptist Church, LaGrange. For over 31 years, he led the congregation in song with great joy. He especially loved to lead the church’s choral ensembles of all generations, from student choir to senior adult choir. Anthony also believed in the importance of bringing music to the broader LaGrange community to serve others, and he led many music-based mission trips to share the gospel of Jesus Christ through song.

Beyond his work in ministry, Anthony was a supporter of the arts in his community. He was an adjunct professor of music at LaGrange College, and for many years, he served on the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors. Anthony was also a wonderful cook, an avid reader, and a lover of history.

Of all the roles he held throughout his life, none brought him greater pride than those of husband and father. Anthony is survived by his wife of 27 years, Rebecca, and his daughters, Libby (Sam) Phillips and Milly Criswell. His family was the center of his life, and he loved to involve them in music ministry opportunities, leading worship alongside them.

Even throughout his four-year battle with cancer, Anthony never lost sight of his calling to share Christ’s love with his community. His deepest desire was always to be a faithful servant of God, and he persevered in doing just that, even in the midst of the illness that he experienced during his final years. Anthony’s life is a testament to the humility, joy, and purpose that is found in wholehearted devotion to Jesus Christ.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, July 2, at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church on the Square, LaGrange, Georgia. The family will receive friends during a visitation directly before the service, beginning at 9:30 a.m. A private burial will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist LaGrange Music Ministry and Wellstar West Georgia Hospice.

All arrangements are made by Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 1010 Mooty Bridge Road, LaGrange, GA 30240.

Those wishing to share a condolence or remembrance with the family may do so by visiting www.shlagrange.com.