William B. Criswell, age 93, was born on July 4, 1933, in Ripley, Mississippi, the youngest of six children. He grew up learning the importance of hard work, family, and caring for others—values he carried throughout his life.

On November 23, 1957, William married the love of his life, Evelyn. During their 67 years of marriage, they welcomed three children and built a life centered around family. In 1965, they moved from Mississippi to Canton, Georgia, where they planted roots in the community.

Known as “Coach” to many, but simply “Pop” to those who knew him best, William spent countless hours in gyms and on ball courts, sharing his love of sports and investing in young people. For him, coaching was about more than wins and losses. It was about building character, teaching life lessons, and encouraging others to give their best.

Above all, William loved his family. A devoted husband, proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he treasured time spent cheering from the sidelines, sharing stories, and making memories with those he loved. His life was marked by hard work, dedication, and a love that will continue through generations.

William was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 67 years, Evelyn Criswell, and his granddaughter, Kunani Criswell.

He is survived by his three children: Jackie (Robert) Franklin of Avon Park, Florida; Karen (Jeff) Davis of Canton, Georgia; and Billy (Sandy) Criswell of Virginia Beach, Virginia.

He also leaves behind five grandchildren: Ron (Beth) Davis, Kristi (Seth) Townley, Beth (Cliff) Kendall, Kelsey (Brandi) Criswell, and Tory (Emily) Criswell; and five great-grandchildren: Casey and Finn Townley, Bridget Kendall, and Mialani and Alaia Criswell.

Coach to many, but Pop to those who knew him best. His lessons, love, and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 PM on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at Macedonia Baptist Church with Rev. Terry Caylor officiating. Interment will follow at Macedonia Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM Monday, November 9, 2026, at the South Canton Funeral Home, and he will lie in state from 10:00 AM till the funeral hour on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at the Macedonia Baptist Church located at 11230 East Cherokee Drive, Ball Ground, Ga. 30107.

In place of flowers, donations can be made to the Macedonia Baptist Church Building Fund in Pop's memory. % Roy Doss, 690 Beavers Road, Canton, GA. 30115

South Canton Funeral Home, dedicated to the families we serve, 770-479-3377. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.thescfh.com