In Loving Memory of Davilee Nicole Criss Kadrlik (1973–2025)
Richmond, Va. — With profound sadness and heartfelt remembrance, we announce the passing of Davilee Nicole Criss Kadrlik, 51, of Richmond, Virginia, who passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025. A cherished mother, wife, daughter, sister, teacher, and friend, Davilee touched countless lives with her unwavering compassion, boundless creativity, and joyful spirit.
A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Garden Hall building at Maymont Park. Attendees may park at the Historical Estate Entrance, 1700 Hampton Street, Richmond, VA 23220. All who knew and loved Davilee are warmly invited to attend and share in honoring her extraordinary life.
A proud graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, Davilee was a lifelong champion of the arts. She fearlessly followed her passion to Los Angeles, where she pursued music and acting, performing her original songs at venues such as the House of Blues. Her creative spirit and drive inspired many.
Upon returning to Richmond, Davilee discovered her true purpose in the field of special education. She began her teaching career at Falling Creek Middle School and went on to serve with deep dedication at Tomahawk Creek Middle School in Chesterfield County. Over two decades, Davilee became a guiding light for her students and colleagues—recognized for her kindness, patience, and unshakable belief in the potential of every child.
Davilee’s love extended beyond the classroom. She was a steadfast friend, maintaining deep, lifelong connections and celebrating each person in her life with warmth and sincerity. Her heart belonged to her family, with cherished moments spent at the family condo in Virginia Beach, where laughter, music, and love were always in abundance.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Ben Kadrlik; her adored daughters, Leighton and Evelyn Kadrlik; her mother, JoAnn Parsons Criss; her sister, Angela Criss, and niece and nephew, Freedom and Jobie; and a wide circle of extended family and friends who mourn her passing deeply. Davilee was preceded in death by her father, Robert Criss.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to support Davilee’s family with medical expenses can be made through the GoFundMe page created in her honor
Davilee’s legacy lives on in every life she touched—with her songs, her laughter, her compassion, and her boundless heart. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
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