Derena White

Derena Hall White Crittenden, age 61, of Erwin, passed away unexpectedly at her residence on Sunday, March 30, 2025. She was born on December 27, 1963, in Thomasville, North Carolina, to Carl Hall and the late Alma Armbrister Hall. She moved to Erwin with her husband in 2014.

Derena was of the Christian Faith. She earned her master’s degree in human resources from the University of Pheonix. Derena was formerly employed at H&R Block and East Tennessee State University.

Derena was a woman of many talents which included cooking, sewing, knitting, growing plants, herbs, and flowers. She made herbal remedies from her garden. Derena enjoyed raising chickens and quail. One of her favorite places to visit were trips to the beach.

Derena was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends.

In addition to her mother, Derena was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Makayla Grindstaff.

Derena leaves behind to cherish her memory, her husband, Ric Crittenden; her father, Carl Hall; four children: Matthew Grindstaff of Erwin, Ashley Smith (David) of Johnson City, Brenda Norrod (Michael) of Jonesborough, and Richelle Conley (Rob) of Jonas Ridge, North Carolina; two sisters: Debbie Grubb and Devona Byrge (Scott); eleven grandchildren and two nephews.

Services for Derena will be announced at a future date.   

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the White/Crittenden family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com. 

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve the White/Crittenden family. (423) 743-1380.

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