Arthur E. Criss

Arthur E. Criss, 87 of Toms River, passed peacefully in the presence of family and love on Saturday, July 19, 2025.  Art was born March 10th,1938 in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Art is predeceased by his parents, Harry Criss, Marie Francis, brothers Harry, Ray and Jack Criss and sisters Evelyn (O’Hare) and Marie (Ruperto).

Art was predeceased by his beloved wife of 65 years, Annmarie Criss (McCormick) on July 27, 2024 and raised 4 children, Art (Wanda) Criss; James (Colleen) Criss; daughters, Kathie Criss; Bethann (Rick) Buchy; cherished grandchildren, his pride and joy, Britnie, Emily, Patrick, Brianna, McKayla, Brooke and with loving nieces, nephews and lifelong friends.

Art graduated from St. Peter’s High School, New Brunswick, where he was inducted into the Sports Athletic Hall of Fame, received his Bachelor’s Degree at Rider University and later received his Master’s Degree in Education from Trenton State.

Art retired as the Superintendent of Southern Regional School District. He began his career in education with Southern Regional as an English teacher, Director of Student Services, Middle School Principle and an Athletic Director. Where he spent time as a Head Basketball Coach and was inducted into the Southern Regional Hall of Fame, DAANJ class of 2014.

Art excelled in everything he did as the founder of The Roundball Festival (WOBM Christmas Classic), the host of The Press Box Sports Show and a Sports Scene columnist in The Times-Beacon newspaper for 20 years.

Art loved spending time playing golf in Pinehurst, North Carolina and Heritage Shores, Delaware with his wife, Ann Marie, all family and friends. In addition, he also belonged to the National Hole-In-One Association in 1989, hole #6 at Manasquan River Golf Club and a true avid Yankee fan.

Art will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his selfless service to others, his warm unforgettable spirit and a way of making everyone feel seen and loved. In all, Art, you will forever be our favorite and will continue to make our day.

To commemorate his life’s journey, the family welcomes friends and relatives for a Memorial Gathering on Sunday, July 27, 2025 from 2pm to 5pm at Timothy E. Ryan Home for Funerals, 145 St. Catherine Blvd., Toms River.  A Mass will be held at 10am, Monday, July 28, 2025 at St. Joseph RC Church, Toms River with entombment to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Toms River.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in memory of Arthur Criss to American Kidney Fund www.kidneyfund.org or American Heart Association www.heart.org.