Mr. Christopher "Chris" Cross

UTICA – Mr. Christopher “Chris” Cross, age 69, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, in the comfort and dignity of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Bronx River, NY on March 28, 1955, Christopher was the son of the late Willie, Sr. and Inel (Adams) Cross. He was raised and educated in Bronx River and was a graduate of James Monroe High School. He furthered his education at a college in Waco, TX, taking advantage of a basketball scholarship he earned due to his gifted athleticism. Looking to make a new life, he came to the Utica area in 1989 where he has since resided. At one time Chris held a position as a security guard with the Insight House. He then was employed as a treatment counselor with the Rescue Mission up until his illness. On November 22, 2010, he wed the former Peggy Belinda Smith with whom he shared a loving a devoted union. A man with a generous heart, Chris loved and adored his family. He had a magnificent way of telling stories and always invented memorable quotes and meaningful words to live by. One of the most famous was “be firm, fair, consistent, and remain charitable.” He also often said “I laugh and joke, but I don’t play!” He was a quiet and gentle person, and a good soul. He had a way of making a lasting impression on people and once you met him, he made an indelible mark on your soul. In his youth, Chris was an exceptional athlete, excelling in basketball and boxing. He also loved watching professional basketball and rooted for many of his favorite New York sports teams. Chris also enjoyed social media and keeping in touch with loved ones and friends. He was quite stylish and had a vast and sharp wardrobe. He also appreciated the beauty of a great time piece. Chris held a Brotherhood with his “Brothers for Life” in Bronx River, NY, relationships that he honored and adored. He was a faithful member of Lighthouse Baptist Church. Chris is survived by his wife, Peggy; step-children, Tyra Gray, Donesha and Malachi Dawkins, twins Chanei John, and Chanel Jones, and Leondrey Smith and Linda; step-grandchildren, Kevin, Talia; Madison, Major, Maxine; Natasha, Knowledge, Neyomiah; John, Jr., Janae, Makayla; Devin, Ariah, Amarius, Ariveaha, Deyannaee, Dehydra, Dezetennee, Dezerraee, and Bronx; sister, Sarah Bostick; and brother, Melvin Cross. He cherished the memories of his siblings who preceded him, Mary Francis, Ann, Willie, Jr. and Barbara, David, and Danny; and sister-in-law, Elisa Smith. His loss is also felt by his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; in-laws, Cookie Pierce, twins Kimberly and John Bradley, and Karen Thomas and her late husband George, Frederick Smith and Loretta Jones, and Nicholas and Annette Smith; and goddaughter, Kyiona Jones. The family extends their gratitude to Dr. V. Kandiah, MD for his care and compassion, and to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc., especially acknowledging R.N. Crystal for her loving care. Thanks and appreciation are also extended to Chris’ neighbors who assisted him and his family at times of need. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to Chris’ Memorial Service and Celebration of Life, which will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Lighthouse Baptist Church, 701 Kossuth Ave. Those unable to attend may be present virtually at https://www.lighthousecnychurch.com/live-stream/

Mr. Christopher "Chris" Cross

March 28, 1955 - May 8, 2024