James (Jerry) Critchelow
Dec. 5, 1956 – April 20, 2022
Preceded in death by Patsy Critchelow (sister), Hobert Critchelow (father), Frances Lucas (mother-in-law), Lee Lucas (father-in-law) and Brad Critchelow (son).
Survived by his wife, Gail (Lucas) Critchelow; daughters, Amanda (Matt) Fitzgerald and Callie Critchelow; daughter-in-law, Melanie Critchelow; granddaughters, Macy Critchelow, Jazlynn Howard, and Ruthie Fitzgerald; mother, Doris Jean Critchelow; siblings, Terry (Doug) Moorman, Kevin (Javonda) Critchelow, Annette (David) Lucas, Theresa (Tommy) Weatherholt, Sandy (Lamar) Carter, Brenda (Jeff) Bradshaw, Raymond (Missy) Critchelow, Tony Critchelow, and Patrick (Kari) Critchelow; and many nieces and nephews.
He was a devout member of Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, retired after 30 years of service with Kentucky State Police, and was an Ohio County Sheriff’s Deputy working as the Resource Officer for Ohio County Schools.
Jerry was a man of faith, a devoted husband, and provider. He has been described as many things: avid hunter, athlete, witty, knife-tosser, animal lover, prankster, protector, spray-foamer, teacher, taxidermist, leader, fixer-upper, scuba diver, gardener, powered parachuter, brutally considerate, hibachi chef, hero, friend, explorer, marksman, listener, consoler, singer, and storyteller.
He never met a stranger, never said no to someone in need, and was a breath of fresh air. He loved his family, his law enforcement families, his students, and all the staff at Ohio County High School. He was born to serve and make people feel loved.
As Jerry would say, “I occur.”
Services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, April 23, 2022, at Ohio County High School with Father Julio Barrera officiating. Burial will follow in Sunnyside Cemetery in Beaver Dam, Kentucky. Visitation will be from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. Friday April 21, and from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.Saturday at the Ohio County High School (1400 S. Main Street, Hartford, KY)
Expressions of sympathy can be made by donating to SHOP WITH A COP for Ohio County. Information for donations will be at visitation or by contacting Kentucky State Police Post 16, Attn: Trooper Corey King, 8298 Keach Dr. Henderson, KY 42420, (270) 826-3312, or In Memory of Jerry Critchelow at kspfoundation.org/donate.
