Marilyn Cross
Marilyn Cross, 69, of Chattanooga, beloved mother, grandmother, and sister, peacefully passed away on Saturday, September 30, 2023, in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
She was born on February 20, 1954, to Melvin and Mattie Jenkins in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Marilyn graduated from Riverside High School, where she was a cheerleader and majorette. She was a member of Orchard Knob Baptist Church, where she served on the Usher board. Marilyn was known for her beautiful smile, lighting up any room she walked in. She also enjoyed spending time with her family and laughing and dancing. With a laugh, capable of infecting everyone around her, she was the light you never knew you needed. She had the ability to get in the kitchen and prepare a delicious meal. Never have there been a soul with such kindness, joy, and grace.
Marilyn was preceded in death by her father, Melvin Jenkins; mother, Mattie Jenkins; sister, Katherine Easley; and nephew, Tony Talley.
Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Toree (Lovest) Carter, Corey (Leeah) Cross, Lorri Cross, and Myracle Cross (Robert); grandchildren, Lovlee Carter, Lovest Carter, Jr., Lawonte Carter, Demetrius Carter, Ra’Myr Morris, and Loryn Talley; great-grandchildren, Byntlee Bradley, Bralyn Carter, and Derrick Bradley, Jr.; siblings, Judy (Clemmie) Benjamin, Melvin (Lisa) Jenkins, Jr., and Deonna Richardson; nine nieces and nephews; a host of cousins; other relatives and friends.
Marilyn will lie in state on Monday, Oct. 9, at 10 a.m. at Orchard Knob Missionary Baptist Church.
Funeral services will follow at noon with Pastor William Washington as the eulogist.
Burial will be in Lakewood Memory Gardens, East.
Arrangements are by Taylor Funeral Home of Chattanooga, Inc.