Avon was visiting my brother Paul and I at Camp Willson a summer camp for children 8-16, where we worked as counselors. We were sitting around a table inside the dining hall about 11 pm when the assistant camp director walked in. Avon asked “who are you “? Paul replies “I am just the night watchman “(Paul loves kidding people), Avon replied “no you are the night watchman your job is important to “.  I always remembered that because she was correct no one is “just” anything, we are all important!

I knew Avon when she was teaching college prep in Malaysia back in mid-1990s. It was on the other side of the world and as a struggling academic I was grateful for the advice and consultation Avon gave so generously. Our collaboration resulted in several peer-reviewed journal articles.  It was also in large part upon Avon’s vote of confidence that I ultimately enrolled in IU Bloomington for my doctorate where I spent some of my happiest years. I visited her home in Uniondale many times and she would put us up and fed us, no matter how many of us showed up. She even came down to Bloomington for our graduation. There are many others from far-flung places whose lives Avon touched in some subtle manner as a teacher and colleague, whose life trajectories changed entirely as a result. She will ever be remembered for her grace and hospitality. May she rest in peace.

To Dr. Crismore's family, 

Please, know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

I knew  Dr. Crismore through her work as a professor at IU Fort Wayne.  I have memories of her dedication to teaching , helping her students, and supporting her fellow faculty members.  She was a mentor to many  and   had a very positive influence on the lives and careers  of many throughout her long years of of service.  

May she rest  from her labors in the peace of her Lord.



Avon was my teacher when I was an undergraduate student, my mentor and colleague when I went into teaching, and, above all, a dear family friend. I remember the kind heart behind the crusty exterior, the many times we enjoyed dinner with her and Ed at the house in sleepy Uniondale and rhe wonderful travelogues detailing her many adventures far abroad. She was wise, flexible, old school but dedicated to new learning, and she left an indelible imprint on me. To say that she will be missed is a grievous understatement. Thank you, Avon.

Dear Ryan,
I'm so sorry to learn of the death of your mother. May your memories bring you comfort and peace. I'm forever grateful how gracious you were to my mother in her declining years.
Sandy Geist Funk

I taught part-time in the English Dept.  composition program at IPFW.  I recall learning  from her  in the various workshops she held for the adjunct faculty who were teaching composition.  By sharing her experience and knowledge she left a mark on many teachers and students who will pass that knowledge on to others.  I specifically remember her for suggesting that I consider the Ph.D. program at Purdue and her lectures on heuristics which I was totally unfamiliar with at the time.  

Professor Crismore was so unique. As a graduate student, I had the pleasure of being in one of her courses. She had a great sense of humor, but more importantly, she truly respected her students. She was kind and always had time for me. Heaven has another angel!

I remember Avon well.  I spent more than one sleep-over at her house as a child. She was bigger than life.  She was an exceptional unique individual.  She drew you into her world.  I am good friends with her daughter Jill. I am sure that she will be greatly missed.

OBITUARY

Avon G. Crismore

October 7, 1929 – April 30, 2019

Elzey-Patterson-Rodak Funeral Home

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