John Sterling Criswell, born on January 31, 1957, in Orange Park, Florida, passed away on September 2, 2026, in Dothan, Alabama. He leaves behind a life remembered for his service, hard work, love of family, and unmistakable personality.
John served in the United States Army. In his younger years, he also attended military school in Miami for a short time. He later worked in commercial building maintenance and at Walmart. After many years of hard work, John eventually retired and enjoyed time with his family and the things he loved.
John cherished his family and the time he spent with those closest to him. He is survived by his wife of five years, Sonia Criswell. Together, they shared a marriage filled with love, companionship, and plenty of laughter, and John brought a special energy and color into her life.
He is also survived by his sons, John Criswell, Jr. and his wife Rachael, Nicholas Criswell, and Dalton Criswell; his grandchildren, Isla and Atlas; his former wife and the mother of his sons, Tammie Smith Parker; and his brother, John David “JD” Knight and his wife Rose Marie.
John especially enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren and treasured the moments they shared together. He had a genuine appreciation for plants and enjoyed caring for them.
Those who knew John will remember his animated personality, his sense of humor, and the energy he brought with him wherever he went. He had a way of making himself known and was certainly not someone easily forgotten. Beneath that lively personality was a hardworking man who cared deeply about his family and the people in his life.
John will be remembered with love by his family and friends, who will carry his memory with them and cherish the many stories and moments they shared with him.
Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home (334) 983-6604 www.SunsetMemorialPark.com
