Vera Criswell-Givens

Vera Teen Calloway Criswell-Givens, born the eldest child to the late Levi Calloway and Dorothy Miller on July 20th, 1937.

She attended the Ashley County Schools during her formative years. Upon moving to Little Rock in 1959, she attended Horace Mann’s Adult Education Department, there she received her GED. She was a graduate of its first graduating class. There were many oppositions, obstacles and several challenges along the way. She didn’t allow any of them to stop her from achieving success.

She attended Arkansas Baptist College, graduating with a B.S. degree in Sociology. Ouachita University graduating with a B.A. degree in Early Childhood Development, and Grace University of Omaha, Nebraska with dual B.A. degrees in Biblical Studies and Humanities. She beat the odds that seemed not to be in her favor especially, being an unwedded single mother.

In 1960, she met and married James Clifton Criswell. To this union, three children were born. Larry Criswell, Carl James Criswell (deceased at infancy) and Andre’ Criswell.

In June of 1991, she married Robert Givens and was dedicated to honor him, loving him and caring for him until his death.

Mother Givens rededicated her life to God, at the age of twenty-one. It was then that she decided to serve in the community, her church and mentor other young unwedded mothers who had treaded the same paths. She became a true testament of having unwavering faith in God, while living by His precepts and sharing the message of salvation and deliverance. She shared all of her wealth of knowledge, gift of singing, mentoring and was known as a sure prayer warrior, who wouldn’t take down to Satan and his devices.

Mother Givens is survived by children: Danny Hughes (Anita), Hot Springs, AR Wanda Harris, Crossett, AR Kebyn Criswell (Leslie), East Point, Ga Dennis Calloway, Camden, AR Larry Criswell, Conway, AR and Andre’ Criswell, Conway, AR. A host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. She is also survived by surrogate brothers Charles Mobley (Ella), Macon Wilson (Zuella), Melvin Robinson (Susan) and Joe Hill (Brenda) as well as her mentor Mary Louis Williams, and long time friend Lillian Springer. 

Let us all remember, that Jesus is our perfect example, of how we should live and treat others. We should love unconditionally, have the integrity of a Christian, live what we may sing or talk about and live a life of loving God to the point, that others may see your good works and glorify the Father which is in Heaven.