Leland Crites

Leland "Lee" Ray Crites, 77, of Mitchell, Illinois, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026, with his loving wife and daughters by his side.

Lee was born at home on December 15, 1948, in Sturdivant, Missouri, to Junior and Helen (Woodfin) Crites. However, because the doctor did not arrive until the following day, his birth was officially recorded on December 16, 1948. Throughout his life, Lee enjoyed reminding everyone that he had "two birthdays." On August 5, 1972, he married the love of his life, Donna Slater, beginning a marriage filled with love, devotion, and family.

Lee was a dedicated and hardworking man who took great pride in his career. He began working at Cohen's in 1966, immediately after graduating from high school, where he spent 25 years in inventory management. In 1991, he began working for Park N Shop, which was later acquired by Schnucks which he faithfully served there until his retirement in 2014. Throughout his entire career, Lee never took a single vacation day. He approached every job with diligence, reliability, and quiet dedication. He carried that same steadfast character into every aspect of his life.

Above all else, Lee cherished his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Donna Crites; his two daughters and sons-in-law, Laura and Michael Lorts of Troy, Illinois, and Amy and Matthew Whitehead of St. Jacob, Illinois; and his four grandchildren that are his pride and joy, Rylee Lorts, MaKenzie Lorts, Tessa Whitehead, and Tate Whitehead, who brought him endless pride and joy.

He is also survived by his siblings, Steve and Sandy Crites of Granite City, Illinois; Sharon and Jim Ritchee of Highland, Illinois; and Teresa and Jim DeMontmollin of Bethalto, Illinois.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Junior and Helen Crites.

Lee found joy in the simple pleasures of life. In his younger years, he enjoyed fishing, frog gigging, camping and riding dirt bikes. Later, he poured his time and talents into restoring his classic 1957 Chevy. He also enjoyed spending time in his shop working on projects and took great pride in gardening. Some of his favorite moments were spent gathered around the table sharing dinner with family. His annual Thanksgiving turkey fry became a beloved family tradition that everyone looked forward to each year. He also found great joy in giving back to children, especially during the holidays or whenever a family was in need.

Lee will be remembered for his willingness to lend a helping hand and the countless memories he created with those who knew and loved him. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the values he instilled in them.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be at Calvary Life Church, 4650 Maryville Road, Granite City, Illinois on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. until time of a funeral service at 11:30 a.m. with Reverend Mark Maynard officiating. Burial will follow at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon, Illinois.

In honor of Lee's generous spirit and his love for helping children, memorial donations may be made to Shriners Children's St. Louis in lieu of flowers.

Condolences and memories may be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.

Obit Provided By:
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home