Jama M. Kriz, 63, of Elmwood, passed away, surrounded by family, at 6:26 p.m., on Saturday, February 19, 2022, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

She was born November 28, 1958, to Max and Patricia (Marston) Morse in Peoria, IL. Jama attended her undergrad at the University of Illinois and then received her Juris Doctorate from University of Minnesota. Initially a secondary math educator she moved on to insurance underwriting and finally got the itch to become a lawyer. During her 33 years of practicing, she achieved partner status at Leonard Street & Deinard, region council at SuperValu and finished of council at Stinson LLP.

Jama is survived by her loving husband of 39 years, Jeff Kriz, whom she married in Peoria, IL on September 5, 1982. She will be greatly missed by her three children, Zachary (Laura) Kriz of Lisle, IL, Amanda (Derrick) Stanton of Grand Forks, ND, and Elizabeth (Alex Slater) Kriz of Bismarck, ND; and her grandchild, Lily Kriz. As well as her two brothers, Mark and Fred Morse, sister, Amy Kepple, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, and countless friends she loved like family. She is preceded in death by her parents.

Jama was self-less, strong, positive, and always looking after others. She had the innate ability to light up any room and everyone she met was an instant friend. Heaven is a brighter place with her smile. Jama was a recent Elder of the 1st Presbyterian Church of Elmwood, where her memorial will be held March 19, 2022, at 11:00 a.m.