Tonie Crisler, the newly elected 12th Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Stringer Grand Lodge of Mississippi, Prince Hall Affiliation, was born in Crystal Springs, Mississippi, to proud parents Thomas and Lfora Crisler. The oldest of four children, he learned early the values of responsibility, leadership, and service—qualities that would shape the foundation of his life’s work.
For more than 35 years, Grand Master Crisler has been married to his beloved wife, Kimberly, and together they have raised three children. Their family continues to grow, and he is a proud grandfather to five grandsons, who bring him immense joy and inspiration.
Education and Professional Career
Grand Master Crisler is a graduate of Mississippi State University, where he earned a Liberal Arts degree in Architectural Engineering with a Minor in Religious Arts. His professional career reflects a broad range of leadership roles across major Mississippi institutions and corporations.
His employment history includes:
- Deposit Guaranty Bank – Supervisor
- WorldCom – Engineer and later Senior Manager
- Jackson State University – Assistant Director of Facilities Management
- Nissan North America (Canton, Mississippi) – Section Manager
- Hinds County School District – Currently serves as Community Affairs Director
Ministerial Calling
On March 13, 2001, Crisler accepted his spiritual calling and was ordained as a minister. Among all his accomplishments, he considers his greatest honor to be serving as Pastor of Belmont Baptist Church in Raymond, Mississippi, where he continues to preach, teach, and guide others in faith.
Masonic Leadership and Service
Grand Master Crisler’s Masonic journey spans decades of dedicated service, leadership, and devotion to the Craft. His extensive Masonic résumé includes:
- Past Master, Sanderson Lodge No. 22
- Past Worthy Joshua, Crystal Springs Court No. 48
- Past Potentate, Rissah Temple No. 130
- Past Imperial Deputy, Desert of Mississippi
- Past President, Deep South Shriners
- Past Noble Grand, Grand United Order of Odd Fellows
- Member, Jackson Consistory No. 117
- Past Deputy Grand Master, serving faithfully for 21 years under the Most Worshipful Stringer Grand Lodge
His decades of commitment and proven leadership culminated in his election as Grand Master of the M.W. Stringer Grand Lodge on December 1, 2025. He officially assumed the position on January 1, 2026, becoming the 12th Grand Master in the storied history of the jurisdiction.
A Legacy of Service
Grand Master Tonie Crisler’s life reflects service—service to God, to family, to community, and to Prince Hall Freemasonry. His leadership stands as a testament to steady dedication, unwavering faith, and a deep commitment to uplifting others.