Novella Cross Bishop, 88, of Benton, Tennessee, died on Friday, April 21, 2017, at a health care facility in Collegedale, after an extended illness.
Novella was the youngest child of Daniel Marion Cross and Lou Woody Cross; and was also preceded in death by her husband, Louis David Bishop; daughter-in-law, Brenda Mercer Bishop; and siblings, Hester M. Cross Harned(Robert), Dovie Cross Waters (Cecil) and Homer Ray Cross (Franziska).
Novella is survived by her children, Michael David Bishop of Ocoee and Brenda Cheryl Bishop Millsaps (James) of Hixson, TN; grandchildren, Christine Millsaps (Kerrie), Shannon Millsaps (Claire) and James Brian Millsaps (Chelsy); great-grandchildren, Emily Holt, Trinity Holt and Billie Marie Millsaps, all of Hamilton County, and many nieces, nephews and other extended family members.
Novella was a graduate of Polk County High School, where she lettered four years in varsity basketball. Later in life, she attended Cleveland State Community College and during a 30 year career was employed by Cleveland State Community College, State of Tennessee, Cleveland Regional Speech and Hearing Center, United Way of Bradley County, Office of the County Executive of Polk County and Benton Banking Company/First Volunteer Bank, from which she retired in October, 2008.
Novella served her community as a volunteer with Polk County Chamber of Commerce, Polk County Chapter of the American Heart Association and was a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Benton. Novella will perhaps be best remembered for her love of family and community, her indomitable spirit and grit in the face of adversity and her “zany” sense of humor. She is finally home again. Ciao, bella. Well done and Godspeed.
Visitation will be held Monday, April 24, from 4-6 p.m. at Higgins Funeral Home in Benton, prior to the funeral services in the chapel with Dr. Robbie Spieghts officiating. Private interment services for the family will be held on Tuesday, April 25.
Memorial contributions may be made to Benton First Baptist Church or the American Heart Association.