Bobby Joe Criswell was born September 15th, 1943 in Sayre, Oklahoma to Lucille (Prater) and Clark Criswell. He passed away in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on Wednesday, June 24th, 2026 at the age of 82 years, 9 months and 9 days.

Bobby, known by most as Bob, Bobby Joe, and BJ, grew up in Sayre, Oklahoma where he attended school. One month before high school graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy and was stationed in Naples, Italy. Bobby continued to serve his 6 year enlistment and completed his time of service in Maryland where he was honorably discharged in 1967. Bobby moved to Dallas, Texas where he found employment with C.R. Anthony's and Myer's as a department store manager. In 1969 he returned home to visit his parents and met a woman by the name of Velva Jean (Scism). Over the course of a couple months they went on 3 dates before being married on January 10, 1970 in Dallas, Texas. Together they made their home in the Dallas metro area until they moved to Hot Springs, Arkansas. Facing another relocation, Bobby and Velva made the decision to move back to their hometown Sayre, Oklahoma in 1975. They purchased the Bulo Store and continued to own and operate it until 1977 when they moved into town and Bobby began his construction career. Bobby's career spanned more than 32 years and even added an arts and crafts store with Velva. In 2011 he began working for the City of Sayre as the building code enforcement officer and ended his time with the city as the general contractor. Even after his retirement in 2016, Bobby was still called on by the city manager to act as a consultant for projects. Bobby enjoyed nothing more than to attend arts and craft shows with Velva.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Velva; and one son, Rodney.

Bobby is survived by his 2 sons, Bryan Criswell and wife, Pam, Elk City, OK and Jim Criswell and Michelle, Sayre, OK; 2 grandchildren, Lexus and Aspen Criswell; 1 great grandson, Lane Herren and a host of other relatives and friends.