Ruth Ann Criswell, fondly known as Ann, passed into eternal rest on Friday, June 20, 2025, at Ray & Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center at the age of 84.
She was born on August 3, 1940, to the late William P. and Frances Rosella Wurth O’Nan in the heart of Paducah, Kentucky. Ann's life was a testament to her enduring strength and compassionate nature. As a long-standing member of St. Thomas More Catholic Church, she embodied her strong faith in the Lord. Her career at Lourdes Childcare Center was not just a job but a calling, where she poured her love and care into the hearts of the children she tended.
Hours spent in her flower garden, nurturing the blooms, were precious moments of tranquility, just as the sight of birds fluttering about. One of her favorite summer pastimes was spending time with her family at Kentucky Lake, where they would fish, grill, and laugh together. She was also an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, UK Basketball, and all sports.
Renowned for her caring and giving spirit, she continually put the needs of her children and grandchildren above her own. Her love knew no bounds, and her family felt the grace of her generosity in countless ways.
Ann is survived by her daughters, Kathy Thurston (Randy) of Melber, and Toni Criswell (Jason Midyett) of Paducah; a son, Sammy Criswell of Benton; seven grandchildren, Caleb Thurston (Danielle), Nathan Phipps (Kara), Justin Phipps, TJ Criswell, Ashley Alonso, Annissa Midyett, and Tallulah Midyett; five great-grandchildren, Logan Doyle, Morgan Smith Ellee Alonso, Wrenley Phipps, and Faelyn Phipps; two great-great-grandchildren, Grayson Smith, and Zoe Smith; three sisters, Barbara Robinson, Jane Manning, and Vickie O’Nan all of Paducah; three brothers, Albert O’Nan, Johnny O’Nan, and Richard O’Nan all of Paducah.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Ellen Brooking; two brothers, James O’Nan, and William O’Nan; a daughter-in-law, Annette Criswell; and her parents.
A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church with Rev. Mike Clark officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until the service hour of 11:00 am on Thursday, June 26, 2025, in the Works of Mercy Chapel at St. Thomas More Catholic Church.
Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah is in charge of arrangements.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.
You may leave a message of sympathy and light a candle of remembrance at www.milnerandorr.com.
