Rebecca "Becky" Deann Crites

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Rebecca “Becky” Deann Crites, who left this world on February 11, 2026, at the age of 49, after a courageous journey at Mercy Hospital in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Becky was born on November 21, 1976, in Garnett, Kansas, to Donna Schommer and Robert Peterson. In the spring of 1977, she found a loving home with her foster parents, Robert and Mary Crites, in Coffeyville, where they nurtured her with abundant love and care. In May of 1984, her family bond deepened when Robert and Mary officially adopted her, and her birth mother remained an important part of her life.

A proud graduate of Field Kindley Memorial High School, Becky embraced life with enthusiasm and a joyful spirit. She found immense joy in attending church, cherishing family gatherings, and particularly relishing the warmth of the 4th of July picnics that brought family and friends together. Simple moments spent outdoors, watching her Daddy Robert work, filled her heart with happiness.

Known for her playful nature, Becky had a unique way of spreading joy and was always ready with a tease for her loved ones. Her affinity for animals and her active participation in Buddy Sports and recreational activities demonstrated her vibrant spirit. She found solace in the art of puzzles, the beauty of coloring, and the joy of painting with watercolors. Music was her constant companion, especially her favorite song, “Bull Frogs and Butterflies,” which she loved playing on repeat as she danced with abandon.

Becky’s ability to embrace life and accept those around her was a true gift that touched everyone she encountered. Her childlike faith and spirit served as a gentle reminder of the beauty and blessings in our lives, highlighting her extraordinary presence as a miracle among us.

She is survived by her siblings Beth Jones, Robert Crites and wife Christina, Michael Crites, birth mother, Donna Schommer and late husband Jonathan, sister Judith Pace; a loving array of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and an abundance of cherished friends. She is lovingly remembered and preceded in death by her devoted parents, Robert and Mary Crites, her sister Pamela Crites.

In honor of Becky’s beautiful life, a Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 1 PM at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, located at 2405 Woodland Ave., in Coffeyville. Following the service, Becky will find her final resting place in Restlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, nestled among her loving parents and sister. We invite all who knew and loved Becky to join us in celebrating her remarkable life, and those unable to attend can view the live streaming of the service or share their condolences and memories on her obituary page at www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com.