Genetra Florence Critton

Genetra Critton was born in Haywood County, North Carolina to Henry Glover and Mable Tucker. She graduated in 1954 from Reynolds High School in Canton, North Carolina. While in high school she was a star point-guard on the girls’ basketball team, a member of the Glee Club, and was considered Most Courteous for senior superlatives. Shortly after graduation, she visited her sister Eleanor Gibbs in Jacksonville, Florida where her favorite nieces, Deedy and Sissy introduced her to Willie Critton.

Genetra and Willie were married at Wayman Chapel AME in November 1957, where she was an active member for more than 60 years! Soon after the nuptials, they started a family and raised four children together, Alfreda Fitzpatrick (Wilton), Willie “Bay” Critton Jr., Kenneth “Big Kenny” Critton (Sally), and Terry Critton. Over the years, she worked as a homemaker preparing the best dishes and desserts for friends and family. She also, played an integral role in the family home heating business, Willie’s Fuel Oil Service, by managing customer relations and payment processing.

Naz, her nickname given to her by her brother Milton “Felch” Glover, loved to have a good time. She enjoyed spending time with family, going to the beach, shopping, and would hop in the car with anyone to joyride around town. She was quite a wiz at completing crossword puzzles, she relished going to Dunkin Doughnuts for a cup of black coffee, loved to stay up late watching Lifetime movies and faithfully cheered on the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Genetra Critton slept away peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, June 1, 2022. She was preceded in death by her son, Kenneth Critton; father, Henry Glover; and mother, Mable Tucker Glover.   

Naz leaves a devoted husband, Mr. Willie Critton; three children, Alfreda Fitzpatrick (Wilton), Willie Critton, Jr. and Terry Critton; daughter-in-law, Sally Critton; niece Deola “Deedy” Harrison (Ronald); and nephew Barry Gibbs (Val); eight grandchildren, Lawrence Critton, Kenneth “Lil Kenny” Critton Jr., Dishan Brant (Jerry), Jacquelyn Bailey (Laura), Cicely Tyson-White (Errol), Whitney Graham (Tarvus), Dylan Critton and Jhelani Smith; hometown friend, Bennie Millier; and host of great grandchildren, great nieces and nephews, and many unwavering friends!

Consider wearing Jags Gear or White to honor Genetra “Naz”Critton

Sarah L. Carter's Funeral Home Southside is serving the Family.

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