Miriam Crider

Miriam Jean Crider, 97, of Topeka, passed away, Wednesday, November 23, 2011.
She was born at Paxico, KS on May 15, 1914, the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. O. W. Schwalm. She moved to Topeka in 1933 and has been a resident of Topeka since. In the 1940's she was a stenographer with the State Commission of Revenue and Taxation. She was later employed as secretary to Public Relations Head, State Department of Education, after which she was hired as secretary to the executive secretary of the Kansas State Board of Regents. After retirement she was employed part-time with Santa Fe and Topeka Capital-Journal.
She was married to James L. Crider in 1943 in Topeka. He preceded her in death April 10, 2010.
Mrs. Crider was a member of Topeka Bible Church, and had been a charter member previously of Gage Park Baptist Church. She taught junior and adult church school classes and sang in the choir at Gage Park Baptist Church.
She was a long time member of Kansas Authors Club, and a former president of First District, Kansas Authors Club. She was a life member of Native Sons and Daughters organization.
Mrs. Crider was a free-lance writer and has had articles published in local and national publication through the years. In the 1960's she had articles published on two of the "freedoms" in Liberty Magazine.
Survivors include one sister, Patricia Larsen, Olathe, and a brother, Bill Schwalm of Alma and numerous nieces and nephews.
Cremation is planned. A Memorial Celebration of Jean's life will be held 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 30, 2011 in the Xenos room at Topeka Bible Church, 1135 SW College Avenue. An inurnment ceremony will follow at 2:00 p.m. Thursday December 1, 2011 at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel is assisting with arrangements.