Steven Len Criscoe, age 70, of the Pine Ridge community, passed away peacefully at his home on February 17, 2026.
Steve was born on July 31, 1955, in Madison County, Alabama, to the late Albert and Shelby Jean “Yancey” Criscoe of Union Grove. He married his high school sweetheart, Debbie, on February 8, 1974, and together they shared 52 years of devoted marriage filled with love, faith, and family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Jean Criscoe; his grandparents, Gilbert and Nell Criscoe and Huey and Cleo Yancey.
Steve is lovingly survived by his wife, Debbie Criscoe; his children, Jeremy Criscoe (Maranda) and Julie Criscoe (Clyde); and six grandchildren, Hannah Watkins (Acton), Joesph Barnett (Violet), Jasmine Barnett (Carter), Isaiah White (Keira), Ty Criscoe, and Maggie NeSmith. He also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Leni Watkins and Athena White, with several more expected this year. He is also survived by his sister, Karen Serrett (Greg); sister-in-law, Shirley Thomas; brother-in-law, Donnie Whisenant; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Steve retired as a quality inspector from C&M Machinist. Over the years he also served as a camp host, youth minister, and professional dog trainer, always pouring his heart into everything he did.
Known to many as “Brother Steve,” he faithfully served as a youth minister and assistant pastor for nearly 20 years across five churches: Union Grove Baptist, New Cannan Baptist, Shiloh Baptist, Ryan Baptist, and Shoal Creek Baptist. His passion for ministry led him to organize countless youth camps, revivals, retreats, and musicals. He also led mission trips throughout Tennessee, West Virginia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Florida, and internationally to El Salvador. Through his service, he touched the lives of thousands of young people, always eager to share his love for Christ and encourage others in their faith.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, February 22, with visitation at 2:00 PM and services at 3:00 PM at Pine Ridge Baptist Church, with Brother Eldridge Criscoe officiating. Burial will follow immediately after at Pine Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Jeremy Criscoe, Acton Watkins, Clyde Wilson, Carter Gay, Isaiah White, and Ty Criscoe. Honorary Pallbearer will be SPC Joesph Barnett.
Steve will be remembered for his unwavering faith, servant’s heart, and deep love for his family and community. His legacy of kindness, mentorship, and devotion to Christ will live on in the many lives he touched. Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel has the honor of assisting the family with the arrangements.
