Annie Chestine Applegate

Annie Chestine Applegate (Criger), 81, of Walnut Grove, passed peacefully with loved ones beside her on Nov. 25, 2021. She was born March 15, 1940 in Springfield, to Richard Lonnie Criger and Elva May Criger (Ince).   
Applegate worked in the commercial laundry service for many years and eventually retired from American Linen in Springfield.
Applegate is survived by her sister, Helen Adams, of Springfield; Eddie Criger, of Buffalo; children, Jerry and Charlina Applegate, of Walnut Grove, Norma Jean and Denny Marlette, of Willard, Norman and Rosie Applegate, of Springfield, Jimmy Joe Applegate, of Springfield, and Lex Applegate, of Farmington; 15 grandchildren; and 36 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. 
Applegate was preceded in death by her loving husband, Merlin “Dutch” Applegate; daughter Becky Letterman; sisters Alice Juanita Koontz, Nadine Davenport (Criger), Dorothy Yuvonne Stapp, brothers Richard Glen Criger, and Gideon “Junior” Criger. 
Visitation was held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2021 Johns Chapel in Ash Grove with services following at 2 p.m. Services were under the direction of Birch Funeral Home.