Gerald Foster Cross (Jerry), 84, passed away peacefully on December 11, 2025, at Hartford Hospital in Connecticut. Born on February 18, 1941, in Westerly, Rhode Island to the late Bernice (Nichols) and John Cross. Jerry leaves behind his loving wife, Sara (Stannard) Cross. After almost a half century of marriage, Jerry and Sara had a rich life marked with devotion to their faith, their family and each other. He is survived by his children, Vikki Fairbank (Brian) of MA, Dale Lewis (Amie) of CO, Bernice Cross of ME, Shawn Lewis (Norma) of TX, Kim Lavigne (Norm) of CT, Heidi Tomick (Mike) of FL, Erika Vashalifski (Dave) of CT, Sarai Cross of CT, and their families. A multitude of grandchildren and great-grandchildren have been truly blessed to grow up with the heartfelt, loving embrace of "Grampy," a name that echoes with love, warmth, and cherished memories.
Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Army. Following his military service, he continued to dedicate himself to serving others through numerous avenues of ministry and community involvement. A longtime member of the Freemasons and a deacon in his church, Jerry's leadership extended beyond the sanctuary walls. He was especially passionate about prison ministry, where he offered spiritual guidance and hope to those often forgotten by society.
Most recently a member of the First Baptist Church of Lebanon (FBCL), Jerry lived a life marked by deep faith and a heart that was forever devoted to God. His faith was not only a personal conviction but a calling that shaped every aspect of his life. Whether evangelizing through public service or offering quiet counsel to someone in need, Jerry shared the word of God with humility and grace. His steadfast commitment was evident in every chapter of his journey. Jerry's compassion for the less fortunate knew no bounds; he always made space in his heart—and often his home—for those who needed help.
Jerry's legacy is one of love in action: a life lived with purpose, generosity, and an unshakable belief in redemption and grace. His presence brought comfort and strength to many, and his memory will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Community Kitchen (a Men's Ministry at FBCL) at PO Box 231, Lebanon, CT - a cause close to Jerry's heart and an initiative that he helped foster.
May his memory bring peace and comfort to all who knew him. A celebration of Jerry's life will be held on January 31, 2026, at 11:00am at First Baptist Church of Lebanon, 694 Trumbull Hwy, Lebanon, CT. Refreshments to follow.
Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Army. Following his military service, he continued to dedicate himself to serving others through numerous avenues of ministry and community involvement. A longtime member of the Freemasons and a deacon in his church, Jerry's leadership extended beyond the sanctuary walls. He was especially passionate about prison ministry, where he offered spiritual guidance and hope to those often forgotten by society.
Most recently a member of the First Baptist Church of Lebanon (FBCL), Jerry lived a life marked by deep faith and a heart that was forever devoted to God. His faith was not only a personal conviction but a calling that shaped every aspect of his life. Whether evangelizing through public service or offering quiet counsel to someone in need, Jerry shared the word of God with humility and grace. His steadfast commitment was evident in every chapter of his journey. Jerry's compassion for the less fortunate knew no bounds; he always made space in his heart—and often his home—for those who needed help.
Jerry's legacy is one of love in action: a life lived with purpose, generosity, and an unshakable belief in redemption and grace. His presence brought comfort and strength to many, and his memory will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Community Kitchen (a Men's Ministry at FBCL) at PO Box 231, Lebanon, CT - a cause close to Jerry's heart and an initiative that he helped foster.
May his memory bring peace and comfort to all who knew him. A celebration of Jerry's life will be held on January 31, 2026, at 11:00am at First Baptist Church of Lebanon, 694 Trumbull Hwy, Lebanon, CT. Refreshments to follow.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Gerald Cross, please visit our flower store.
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