Ray Cross

Ray M. Cross, 86 yrs, old of the Town of Columbus, NY, passed away on Sunday, March 24, 2024, at home with his family by his side.

Ray was born on February 6, 1938, the son of the late Harry and Eleanor (Roberts) Cross of Brookfield, NY.

On August 26, 1960, he married the love of his life, Juanita R. Weaver.   Ray is survived by his wife of more than 63 years.   He is also survived by his four children: sons, Eugene (Sally) Cross of Ocala, Fl, Kevin (Peggy) Cross of Columbus, NY, Keith (Terri) Cross of Surprise, AZ, and daughter, Lori (David) Carrington of Oneonta, NY.   He is also survived by four grandchildren and six great grandchildren who were the apple of his eye, in addition, he is survived by siblings, Howard Cross of New Berlin, Clara Ortolando of Wilmington, NC, and Grant Cross of Sherburne, NY, as well as several sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.   He was predeceased by a sister, Elizabeth and brothers, Leon, Jeffrey, John, and Richard.

Ray served in the United States Air Force from 1956-1959, when he was honorably discharged, as an Airman First Class.   He worked in the construction industry for over 50 years starting at OW Hubbell and Sons, then finishing his career with Elderlee, retiring in 1999.   Ray was a proud 50-plus year member of the Laborers’ Local #157, earning “Lifetime Membership status” working in road construction. After his retirement, Ray worked part-time and the Milford Academy in New Berlin for several years.

Ray was a long-time member of the Columbus Community Church where he served first as a Deacon and later as an Honorary Trustee.

Ray had a love for restoring and maintaining his model A’s.   He also enjoyed spending time with friends and family.   He took immense pleasure helping friends, family, and the community whenever and wherever he could.

For those who wish, in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Ray’s name to the Columbus Community Church, 4311 State Highway 80, New Berlin, NY 13411, for the “Pave the Way” project, or to the Hospice of Chenango County, 33-39 Court Street, Norwich, NY, 13815.

Services will be held on Saturday March 30, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the Columbus Community Church with Pastor Richard Sliter officiating.

Arrangements are by the Dakin Funeral Home LP, New Berlin, NY.