Janice Williams Criddle

With heavy hearts the family of Janice Williams Criddle announces her passing. She left this world peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and kindness that carries on in her family and that will never be forgotten.

Born in Chowan County on March 7, 1946, Janice was the daughter of the late Richmond Lee Williams, Jr. and Virginia Farless Williams. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James Wilson “Jim” Criddle, who died in March of 2021 after 55 years of marriage.

Retired from Evans Seafood in Washington, NC where she served as the manager of the Seafood Market, Janice was a member of Edenton First Assembly, and the Ladies Auxiliary of both Post 40 of The American Legion and Post 7312 of The Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Those who knew Janice will remember her as a woman of strength. She loved deeply and listened fully and always made people feel at home in her presence. She found joy in simple moments- family gathered around the table, children’s laughter, and the comfort of being together. Her warmth and gentle spirit touched everyone.

Janice was a devoted mother and the heart of her family. The proud mother of her daughters, Stacy Lynn and Mary Virginia Criddle, she poured herself into raising the girls and they will forever carry her lessons, unconditional love, and warmth in their hearts. Her joy was multiplied with the blessing of three grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. They are Meranda Lynn Jordan (Lee), Brandon James Hickman (Alexus), and Savannah Lynn Ester (Bishop). But absolutely nothing lit up her face quite like her great-grandchildren, Raelynn Grace Jordan, Baylee Marie Jordan, Scarlett Neverleigh Smith, Bishop Crew Smith, and Amelia Grace Hickman.

Also surviving are her sisters, Peggy Shrewsbury and Nancy Chappell, and her brothers, John and Robert Williams, and many extended family members and friends.

In keeping with Janice’s wishes, there will be no traditional service. Those who loved her are welcome to visit with the family at her home through Friday evening where they are gathered and look forward to sharing memories and celebrating her life in the place she loved most.

Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home and Crematory, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.