Willie James Critton Sr.

Willie James Critton, Sr. was born in Headland, Alabama, to Corine Tullis McDaniel and Frank Critton. He was part of a large, blended family with five Critton siblings and thirteen McDaniel siblings, all raised in the rural heart of Alabama. Working on a peanut farm during his youth, Willie developed a strong work ethic and the core values that would guide his life-kindness, perseverance, and a deep commitment to helping others. His early experiences shaped the man he became: dependable, humble, and always willing to lend a hand.
In the late 1950s, Willie moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where he began working for Parkway Petroleum. It was there, at a local gas station on Phillips Highway, that he met the love of his life, Genetra Critton. The two were married in November 1957 at Wayman Chapel AME Church-later Wayman Temple-where Willie would serve as a devoted member for more than sixty years. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, and his name lives on-literally-on the cornerstone of the church. He was honored with the title of Trustee Emeritus, a reflection of his unwavering dedication to his faith and church family.
Together, Willie and Genetra raised four children-Alfreda, Willie Jr. "Bay", Kenneth "Big Kenny", and Terry. Together they built a life and home full of love, service, and hospitality. They ran a successful home fuel-oil business and opened their doors to countless family and friends. Willie-or "Mister Willie", as he was affectionately known throughout Jacksonville's Southside community-was a pillar of service and generosity. His home business, Willie's Fuel Oil, served the area faithfully for over thirty years, and he was known for braving cold winter nights to deliver fuel to families in need-never letting finances stand in the way of someone's warmth.
Alongside running his own company, he worked faithfully at Walter L. Dorman's Funeral Home from 1967 to 2000, where he was both a carrier and close friend to Mr. Walter L. Dorman. He continued his service in the funeral profession with Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home from 2002 to 2004. Willie also spent many years self-employed, working tirelessly at The Wood Yard, running his own dump trucks, and taking on various jobs to support his family and serve his community. His hands were never idle, and his heart was always open-leaving behind a legacy built on hard work, compassion, and quiet strength. Known for his warm hospitality and legendary BBQ ribs and chicken, Willie was known for displaying kindness to his neighbors, creating laughter, cooking and sharing his legendary BBG Ribs and Chicken.
In his later years, following the pandemic, Willie and Genetra were lovingly cared for by their daughter, Alfreda, and her husband, Jack whose devotion brought them peace and dignity. He was a giant among men and will be remembered for his generosity, tireless work ethic, steadfast devotion to Christ, and lifelong commitment to family.
Surrounded by love and comfort, Willie James Critton, Sr. peacefully entered into eternal rest on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the age of 90. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Genetra Critton (2022), and his son, Kenneth "Big Kenny" Critton (2015).
Mr. Willie leaves to cherish his memory, three children, Alfreda Fitzpatrick (Wilton "Jack"), Willie Critton, Jr. "Bay", and Terry Critton; daughter-in-law, Sally Critton; favorite nieces, Deola Harrison (Ronald), Gwennie Beck (Raymond), Shawyn Reddick, and LaSha Gibbs; favorite nephews, Barry Gibbs (Val) and Dartea Gibbs (Zina); seven grandchildren, Lawrence Critton, Kenneth "Lil Kenny" Critton Jr., Dishan Brant (Jerry), Jacquelyn Bailey (Laura), Cicely Tyson-White (Errol), Whitney Graham (Tarvus), and Dylan Critton; favorite aunt, Ruby Grimsley; siblings, Inez Critton Slappy, Evester McDaniel, Pauline McDaniel, Roy McDaniel, and Elaine McDaniel (Raymond Dupas Jr.); church buddy, Sister Eleanor (Nanny) Daniels; neighbor and friend, Freddie Walker; mentee and friend, Sarah L. Carter; goddaughter, Terra Jones; and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many unwavering friends who loved and respected him dearly.
Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Southside is serving the Family.
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