Dwaine and Judith (Adams) Crigger left this world together after 48 years of marriage on Monday, July 4th, 2016 due to an unknown carbon monoxide leak in their home. High school sweethearts, it was a very rare occurrence to see one without the other, and by the grace of God, that is exactly how they left their earthly lives.

Judith Adams was born on June 15, 1946 to Carl and Elda (Koch) Adams in Creston, Iowa. Dwaine was born on May 5, 1946 to Francis and Grace (Schrodt) Crigger, also in Creston, Iowa. Both Dwaine and Judy attended Creston schools and met their junior year of high school and were inseparable ever since.  Judy received her degree in elementary education from Northwest Missouri State and received her masters from Southwest Missouri State University (now MSU) Dwaine received his bachelors degree from Northwest Missouri State in 1969 in art and his Masters of Fine Arts from the University of Nebraska in 1972.

Judy taught elementary school for several years before staying at home to raise her children. Dwaine taught a variety of courses at Missouri State in the art department. He was a beloved professor by both students and peers. He continued to teach for 39 years, retiring 2011. Even though retired, Dwaine was still a very active and involved member in Springfield's art community. He was very passionate about bringing local art into the area, especially as he worked with the Mercy Hospital facilities.

Judy and Dwaine were so full of life and love for everyone that crossed their paths. Their biggest pride and joy were their two sons, Jerod and Brian, and their grandson, Drew. They loved going out into the community to listen to music, visit the library, and take walks in Dickerson Park Zoo. Dwaine was very active in the Springfield art community, and Judy loved playing bells at South Street Christian Church with the bell choir. They were such a dynamic duo, and as tragic as this is, we are at peace knowing they are together in eternity.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Elda. Dwaine was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Grace, and one sister, Carolyn. Dwaine is survived by his brothers, Dave (Carolyn), Ron (Sue), and Mike (Michelle) and the couple is survived by their sons Jerod (Alissa) and Brian (Katie), and one grandson, Drew.

A celebration of their lives will take place on Wednesday, July 13th at South Street Christian Church in Springfield, MO. The family will receive friends at 1PM followed by the service at 2PM. The couple will be interred at North Greenlawn Cemetery following the service. Memorial donations can be made to Dickerson Park Zoo or South Street Christian Church. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home.