Merriam Hill Cross, 85, born May 28, 1935 in Chattanooga, TN to the late James and Annie Mae Hill, departed this life on October 21, 2020.
She was a 1953 graduate of Howard High School and attended San Diego Community College in San Diego, CA. She was a lifetime member of Phillips Temple CME Church where she served on numerous boards and organizations including the Stewardess Board, Missionary Society, Choir and Special Committees.
She was formerly employed by Busch’s Jewelry Store and Pickett’s Clothing Store for many years. She received numerous awards for her service and kindness to others. While in high school, she was a majorette for Howard High Marching 100 Band and, also a majorette for the American Legion Performing Corps. She was an active member in the Historic Orchard Knob Community Club,where she served as chairperson for membership.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Vilna L. Cross, Sr.; brothers, James and Robert Hill; sisters, Anna, Lexine and Virginia.
She leaves to cherish her memory a devoted daughter, Virginia A. Hendricks (Harold McKeldin, Jr.) of Chattanooga, TN; loving sons, Gary L. (Myrtice) and Vilna L. Cross, Jr. of Chattanooga, TN; sister, Doris H. Snapp of Detroit, MI; brother-in-law, Thomas Snapp of Knoxville, TN; grandchildren, LaKisha, Gary D. and LaChanda Cross, all of Chattanooga, TN, Zona Tiller of Los Angeles, CA, Donte Cross and Jermaine Hubbard of Detroit, MI; great grandchildren, Calmeshe Johnson (Brandon Thomas), Caliyah (Aydarius) Sims, Gary D, Reality, TyJuan Cross, Miracle Strickland of Chattanooga, TN; great-great grandchild, Brennon Thomas of Chattanooga, TN; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.
She birthed three children, but was a mother to many. She had so much love to share. God children, Phyllis and Oscar Parks (Chattanooga), Loretta Jones of Thomasville, GA, Wanda Lockett and daughter, Sharonda of Cincinnati, OH, Patricia Sanderfur and daughter, Jillian, Linda and Randy Stargin, Yvonne Zachery, Valerie Jennings, Carolyn Hilt, Evelyn Barlow and daughter, Candice, Pat Ross; special friends, Anna Sims, Louise Hunter, Pat Franklin, Remell Sorrells, Ernest White and The Phillips Temple CME Church Family; special daughter, Rev. Christiana Felix of Pittsburg, CA.
A public viewing will be held from 2-6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29, at the funeral home.
A private funeral service will be held. Interment: Chattanooga National Cemetery.
Arrangements are by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 423 622-9995.