Cripps

Margaret Anne (Prichard) Cripps, originally of Crossville, most currently a resident of Elgin, Illinois, died on Jan. 4.

She was born on April 3, 1926 in Humboldt, Tennessee.

Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, Roger E. and Gertrude H. (Smith) Prichard, brother, Robert Prichard (Christine), and an infant brother; her beloved husband of 68 years, Dewey Dawes Cripps, formerly of Crossville, Tennessee and most recently of Naperville, Illinois; and adored grandson, Darin Dawes Cripps, of Lebanon, Tennessee.

Margaret loved to crochet, and spent countless hours making afghans for her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She was a fabulous southern cook, and enjoyed cooking for family and friends. She loved to fish and camp, and also enjoyed following the Tennessee Lady Vols basketball team. Margaret was an avid reader, and kept abreast of all current events.

Margaret spent her early years as secretary and assistant to State Congressman Joe L. Evins, Sr. Years later, her love of the Smokey Mountains and a career in bookkeeping took her to Hill’s Department Store in Crossville, where she made many lifelong friends, raised her children, and eventually retired from there as bookkeeper.

Margaret leaves behind her two loved adopted children David Dawes Cripps (Alice) of Nashville, and Suanne Jennings-Esposito (Mark) of Elgin, Illinois. Additionally, grandchildren, Joshua, Rebecca, Brittany, Alason, Kristin, and Robert, as well as great-grandchildren, Joy, Isabelle, Teagan, and Joseph. One sister-in-law and Sunday chat partner, Jean (Jerry) Welch of Crossville. She also leaves many nieces and nephews.

No formal services are planned; there will be a private family service at home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, any Children’s Home/Orphanage, or charity of choice.

Dupage Cremations and Memorial Chapel, West Chicago, Illinois was in charge of the arrangements