Charles William Cross

SWANTON - Charles William "Charlie" Cross, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on November 10th, 2024, at the age of 76.

Charlie was born on May 7, 1948, one of 11 children to the late Andrew and Olive Cross.

Charlie was born in Enosburg, Vermont and moved to Cumberland, NY where he spent some of his childhood years with his family, farming. He later moved to Georgia, VT with his family to live with his grandparents. Charlie then moved to St. Albans where he lived out his adult years.

Charlie graduated from BFA St. Albans. He then joined the Naval Academy and served in the Navy for four years. After his years of service, he started his working career at the St. Albans Co-Op until he found his dream job at the Northwest State Correctional Facility. Charlie's career in corrections was not just a job; it was a place where he built extremely close relationships and made lifelong friends. Working in such a challenging environment, he found camaraderie and trust among his colleagues, which turned into deep and lasting friendships. These bonds were forged through shared experiences and the mutual support they provided each other, making his time in corrections both professionally rewarding and personally fulfilling. Charlie retired from Corrections after 40 years. Shortly after retiring, Charlie realized that he missed the social life and went to work at NMC as a security officer.

Charlie absolutely loved the great outdoors, finding immense joy in hunting and fishing. He cherished family gatherings, where laughter and stories flowed freely, and everyone felt a deep sense of connection. Playing card games was another favorite pastime, bringing out his playful and competitive spirit.

You knew you were special to Charlie if he picked on you with his sarcasm and humor. His witty remarks and playful jabs were always delivered with a goofy grin, making everyone feel loved and appreciated. His sense of humor and lightheartedness brought joy to those around him, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere wherever he went.

Traveling with his wife was a special adventure for Charlie, especially their memorable two-week-long trip in their RV in Maine. These journeys were filled with exploration and bonding, creating treasured memories. Above all, his wife, children, and grandchildren were the center of his world. Their happiness and well-being were his greatest priorities, and he found immense fulfillment in their love and togetherness.

Charlie is survived by his wife Mary Ellen Cross of 25 years, his children Christopher Cross and his wife, Brenda, Kimberly Hutchins, and her husband, Jason, and Jason Cross and his wife, Nicole. As well as, his step children Tony Clement and his wife Nikki, Thomas Dislavo, and Danielle Ryea and her husband Josh. Grandchildren, Ashley, Macy, Isaac, Ava, Leah, Natasha, Tanisha, Justin, Haley, Brendon, Rachelle, Austin, Jacob, Erin, Joshua, and Carson, 7 great grandchildren, siblings, Francis Cross and Shirley Miller, and many nieces and nephews.

Charlie was predeceased by his parents, Andrew and Olive Cross, siblings, Robert, Clayton, Marion, Ronald, Burt, Lynwood, Marie and Mary. As well as lifelong friend, Allan Glover.

Charlie's life revolved around his three kids, Chris, Kim, and Jason. He took pride in their achievements and supported them through every challenge. Charlie's dedication to his children was unwavering. They shared countless adventures, laughter, and lessons, creating a bond that only grew stronger with time. His love for Chris, Kim, and Jason was the foundation of his life and their happiness was his greatest reward. Later in life, Charlie met and married Mary-Ellen, who had three kids of her own. These children became Charlie's stepchildren whom he considered like his own and together they formed a big, blended family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741 or St. Jude’s's Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Friends and family will be invited to Charlie's life celebration events to include visitation on Thursday, November 14th, 2024, from 4-8:00PM at the Goss Life Celebration Home. 89 Grand Ave., Swanton, VT 05488. A memorial service will be held on Friday, November 15th, 2024, at 2:00PM at the Goss Life Celebration Home, 89 grand Ave., Swanton, VT 05488. Interment will follow in Georgia Plains Cemetery, Stonebridge Road, Georgia, VT.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 24th, 2024, from 1-5:00PM at the VFW in Swanton, 8 Merchants Row, Swanton, VT 05488.

Condolences, photos and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com