John Stephen Criminger

John Stephen Criminger, 51, of Columbia passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 22, 2021. John was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, and friend. His love of baseball and music helped him develop many life-long friendships. He played baseball at Lancaster High School, Newberry College and USC Aiken. He also played in the Milwaukee Brewers minor league organization. He will be remembered by many, not only as an outstanding pitcher, but also for the many memories through music he created with family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Nichole Gilstrap Criminger, and daughter, Cameron Criminger, of Columbia. He is also survived by his father, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Criminger (Brenda) of Lancaster; sister, Danya Criminger Rock; nephew, Logan Rock and niece Madison Rock all of Columbia. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lynn Criminger; maternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. J.O. Crawford, Jr. (Marie) and paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Cletus Criminger (Ruth). Celebration of Life will be held at Thompson Funeral Home, 4720 Augusta Road, Lexington on Thursday, March 25, 2021 at 2:00pm. The family will receive friends from 12:30pm-1:45pm before the service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to http://www.doitforthelove.org in honor of John's love of music to pay it forward for those who need the healing power of music.