Robert Crider

Robert Jackson “Jack” Crider, former resident of Beggs and a resident of Checotah, died Sunday morning, July 12, 2009 at the Veterans Medical Center in Muskogee.  He was 80 years of age.  Jack was born January 23, 1929 in Mounds, Oklahoma to Bruce and Lottie (Anderson) Crider.  He attended school in Beggs and on September 15, 1947 married Joann Mackey in Okmulgee.  Jack served his country during World War II and remained an active member of the VFW, DAV and was a lifetime member of the American Legion.  He was also a member of the First Baptist Church of Beggs.  Jack and Joann started the Hilltop Café in Beggs over 20 years ago before moving to the lake.  He retired from Pipeliners Local Union 798 and later opened a tackle business.  He was an avid hunter and fisherman, known for providing a fish fry for many local organizations.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Margaret McCune, brother, B.J. Crider and a son, Jimmy Jack Crider.  Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Joann, of the home, a son, Dr. Billy Paul Crider and wife Dr. Julie Crider, of Mannsfield, Texas and two granddaughters, whom he was very proud of, Coriana Crider of London, England and Tessalya Crider of College Station, Texas.  Funeral services will be held 10:00 A.M. Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at the First Baptist Church of Beggs with Reverend D.J. Bowers officiating.  Interment will follow in the Oakwood Cemetery in Mounds.  Casketbearers will be Pete Eckhart, Ben Bracket, Jim Randolph, Gordon Anderson, Billy Paul Anderson and Rick Parker.  Friends may visit the funeral home on Tuesday from 10-8 P.M.  Arrangements are under the direction of the McClendon-Winters Funeral Home of Beggs.   www.mcclendon-winters.com