Joe Lee Crites, age 66, of Wingate, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday morning, September 29, 2026. He was born in Jacksboro, Texas, on June 5, 1960, to the late John R. and Clara Mae Moore Crites. He was formerly married to Linda Crites Greenberg, with whom he shared two sons.

Joe and his family moved to Independence in Warren County, Indiana, in 1974. He graduated from Seeger Memorial High School in 1978. Joe retired from Frito-Lay in Frankfort, where he worked in shipping and receiving.

Archery was Joe’s passion, and he was a regular at Hilltop Archery in Wingate, where his long-standing friendship with the Stephens family, the owners, was a meaningful part of his time there. An icon in Indiana archery for many years, he won numerous local and regional competitions. Joe was a beloved coach, mentor, and confidant to many young archers. He was a plain‑spoken man, and you always knew where you stood with him. He may have had a rough‑and‑tough exterior, but he was a “softy” on the inside.

He is survived by his two sons, Dustin Crites of Charlotte, North Carolina and Darin (Stephanie) Crites of Muskego, Wisconsin; his granddaughter, Ardin; his sister, Jana Crites of Rockville, Indiana; and two brothers, John (Susan) Crites of Greenfield, Ohio, and Jim (Beth) Crites of West Lafayette, Indiana. In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his brother, Jamie Crites. He is also survived by his beloved nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at Hilltop Archery and is planned for November 22nd, with additional details to be announced soon. Family and Friends Funeral Home of Wingate is assisting Joe’s family. Please visit www.familyandfriendsfh.com to sign the guest book or share a memory.