David Edgar Crites

David E. Crites of Greenville, Missouri, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, his 75th birthday, at Mercy Hospital South in Saint Louis.

In one of David’s favorite books, The Winter of Our Discontent, John Steinbeck writes, “I wonder how many people I’ve looked at all my life and never seen.” For David, the opposite was true. He looked at each aspect of life, whether a person, place, animal, or artifact, as something to be seen and appreciated. His many tales of adventure and history attest to this truth as do the many relationships he developed over his lifetime. When sharing stories, he always focused on the people and the exceptional moments he had with others. To him, the communal experience was what made the memories special. From beginning to end, while living life the way he wanted to, David made sure to see and provide a light to those around him, whether a student or a stray cat.

David was born to Edgar and Nola Crites on August 7, 1949, in Greenville, Missouri, where he spent the majority of his life. In many ways—and to many of us—David’s name became synonymous with Greenville, a town and community to which he dedicated much of his life. In 1971, David graduated from Southeast Missouri State University with a degree in Secondary Education. There, he made lifelong friends whom he visited until his final days. While in college, an advisor told him to “take chemistry,” which David said was the best piece of advice he ever received. He went on to teach multiple sciences at Greenville High School where he taught for over thirty years. As a teacher and mentor, he touched the lives of numerous students, many of whom kept in touch with David even after graduating.

Outside of teaching, David spent much of his life farming the same land where he grew up. He raised cows, sheep, and goats, and often cared for other animals, including the dogs and cats he took in. In the process of doing what he loved, David baled thousands of hay bales, fixed hundreds of fences, and loved one plot of land. He often assisted those in the community with their farming endeavors as well, happy to lend a hand to anyone who asked. His fondest memories always came from working alongside people, whether it be tossing hay onto the truck or repairing an old barn. Many associate David with the open pastures and red barn, and those who visited him at his house likely spotted him resting on the porch on his vintage yellow couch.

Still, whether teaching or farming, an undercurrent of David’s life was his willingness to reflect the kindness of Christ and help others. For many years, David attended Crossroads Church, often opening the hymnal to help lead singing. Additionally, although he preferred driving on country roads instead of the highway, he regularly visited his friends at their houses or nursing homes, especially when he knew he could provide assistance or liven their spirits with a simple visit. During his time as a teacher, he also welcomed several international students into his home, and some continued to keep in contact with David even after they moved. While some individuals likely recall David wearing his worn-out wide-brimmed hat or his torn beanie, most remember him by the other hats he wore: brother, uncle, teacher, farmer, and friend, to name a few. David always enjoyed his time with people, often recalling stories and memories of his visits, including his international trips to places such as Thailand or Ecuador, among others. To many, David embodied the concept of a good neighbor in more ways than one.

Although David is now with his Savior, he has left behind numerous memories. Many can recall him playing a guitar and crooning a favorite song or stargazing alongside him as he pointed out

the constellations dancing across the sparkling sky. Often, David liked to discover nature with others. His frequent tours included exploring various caves, traveling down the river on a float trip, or guiding people on a hike that included his narration about treasure troves or the trail of tears. Whether because of his wide smile or long beard, many have fond memories of David, memories that continue to bless us and remind us of the loving, selfless man he was.

In The Winter of Our Discontent, Steinbeck also notes, “It’s so much darker when a light goes out than it would have been if it had never shone.” David’s light may not have been the sun or a high power beam, but he was the flashlight in the dark, the light appearing when most needed, and the brightness that shone with the hope of making someone’s life a little bit better and a little bit easier. Ultimately, along with the tales of many grandiose adventures and stories filled with the people he met along the way, it is this memory that David leaves behind, having touched the hearts of many.

David was preceded in death by his parents, John Edgar and Nola Crites (nee Davis) of Greenville, MO.

He is survived by his sister Katie Arledge (nee Crites) and husband Eugene. Nephew Jeff Arledge and wife Amy. Niece Jocelyn Wofford and husband Steve. Six great nephews and great nieces: Blake Wofford and wife Mariah, Mason Arledge, Brandon Wofford, Madeline Arledge, Kyra Wofford, and Maegan Arledge. All of St. Louis, MO.

Visitation was held at 5:00 pm, Friday, Aug 16, 2024, at Greenville High School Gym. Funeral service was held at 2:00 on Saturday, August 17, 2024, also in the Greenville High School Gym. Bro Alan Casey ministered to the family. Music was provided by Mason Arledge, Madeline Arledge, Meagan Arledge, Kyra Wofford, and pianist, Allison Page. Jocelyn Wofford, Brandon Moon, and Mason Arledge all gave heartfelt eulogies. Jarred Costephens, Brandon Moon, Brandon Wofford, Blake Wofford. Mason Arledge, and Steve Wofford served as pallbearers. Online condolences can be made at www.rueggfuneralhomes.com

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