Dallas E. Crites

Dallas E. Crites Obituary

It is with great sadness and surprise that we announce the passing of Dallas Ellen Crites on Monday, February 17, 2025, at age 60, due to complications from diabetes.

Born in Ithaca, NY, on November 3, 1964, Dallas was the daughter of Marlene Crites and the late Clay Crites. She grew up in West Chester, Pennsylvania, where she graduated from Henderson High School before earning her Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Delaware in 1986.

Dallas built a successful career in finance, risk control, and project management, beginning at MBNA, where she not only thrived professionally but also formed lifelong friendships. She later brought her expertise to other companies, and throughout her career she has always been deeply valued for her ability to mentor and guide people who worked with her as well as for her integrity and professionalism.

A natural connector, Dallas had a gift for bringing people together—whether in business or in life. She played a part in many enduring friendships and even a few love stories, as friends credit her with introducing them to their soulmates.

She was one of the kindest souls and always wanted to help others. Dallas was deeply committed to giving back to her community, whether through volunteering or charitable giving. Where ever she lived, Dallas always found a local kennel in need of her assistance. But one of her most significant contributions was her work with Sylvia Wilson, a boutique she founded in Fairville, PA, where she donated all proceeds to charity.

As a Type 1 diabetic, Dallas was passionate about advancing research and supporting others facing the same challenges. She participated in a 20-year national study that helped revolutionize diabetes treatment in the late 1990s. Locally, she served on the board of the Delaware chapter of JDRF, raising awareness and funds while providing guidance and encouragement to newly diagnosed diabetics and their families.

Dallas found joy in the simple pleasures of life—spending time with family, friends, and her beloved pets. She was an avid sports fan, especially of the Nebraska Cornhuskers and Philadelphia Eagles. She also had a passion for artistic endeavors, home renovation and gardening, particularly tending to her hydrangeas at her home in Cape Cod.

Dallas embraced life with warmth, generosity, and an infectious spirit. She touched countless lives and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Dallas is preceded in death by her father, Clay W. Crites, and is survived by her mother, Marlene Crites of West Chester, PA, her sister Denise Scheffler and husband Scott of Chester Springs, PA, her brother, Curtis Crites and his wife Elizabeth of Littleton, CO. Her nieces, Erika Emling (Luke) and Casey Scheffler, Madeline Crites and nephew, Spenser Crites as well cousins, one uncle and aunt, and many dear friends…

Dallas’ wishes were for cremation. A Celebration of Life will be held on April 26, 2025 at Grove United Methodist Church, 490 W. Boot Road in West Chester, PA. Visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00am with service at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Dallas’ name can be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) or to ASPCA. She supported both organizations and would have appreciated the kindness.