Chris Gross

JONESBORO - Christopher "Chris" Gross, September 11, 1962 – June 9, 2025, known to most as Chris, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in the sweet presence of his family at his home in Jonesboro, on June 9, 2025. He was 62 years old. Chris was born on Sept. 11, 1962, in Columbia, S.C., to Johanna Wilder and Marshall Gross, both of whom preceded him in death, along with his cherished stepmother, Peggy Gross.

He was also preceded in death by his step brothers, Glenn Jackson and Raymond Greer Sr. He is survived by his loving wife, Christy Gross; his children, Meredith Bowers (Marcus), Tyler Heustess, Sydney Rogers (Justin), Alexa Woods (Robert), and Madison Gross; and his adored grandchildren: Caleb and Emma Bowers, Macelyn and Case Rogers, Mason, Jayson, Jayce, and Landon Woods, and Phoenix Freeman. He also leaves behind his sister, Yenneke Robinson (Stan); a wide circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews; and his four beloved Schnauzers, Big Dave, Professor, Buster, and Dusty "D."

Chris lived a life of deep service and fierce devotion. After graduating high school, he joined the U.S. Army as an 11B 1P infantryman, proudly serving his country for four years and traveling to numerous countries. In 1993, he followed his calling into healthcare, becoming a registered nurse. The emergency room was where his heart thrived. Over the years, he worked in several hospitals including St. Bernards, Crittenden Memorial, Forrest City Medical Center, and CrossRidge Community Hospital. In 2016, he became a nurse practitioner, but in 2020, he returned to his roots as an RN, continuing to care for others with humility, heart, and an unwavering work ethic. Chris often referred to himself as a slave of Christ, and everything in his life pointed back to his faith.

In 2002, he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ, and nothing was ever the same. He served on mission trips to Ecuador and devoted his days to walking in truth and love. He found his spiritual home at Twelve 5 Church in Jonesboro, where he was embraced as both family and servant. His faith wasn't just a belief, it was how he lived, how he loved, and how he led. He was a lifelong history buff who could get lost in books for hours and loved diving into the past to better understand the present. His happy place was Orange Beach, Ala., surrounded by sunshine, ocean waves, and the people he loved most. He was also a man who came alive during the Christmas season, not because of the lights or the presents, but because of the joy in giving and the true meaning behind it all. Chris Gross was the kind of man whose impact can't be captured in a single page. He was a soldier, a nurse, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a brother, a friend, a reader, a giver, and a true servant at heart. He gave endlessly, loved fiercely, and made everyone around him feel seen. He fought the good fight, he kept the faith, and he finished his race well. His legacy will live on in every life he touched, every story we share, and every holiday where giving takes center stage. He was, and always will be, deeply loved.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to Twelve 5 Church, 411 W. Washington Ave., Jonesboro, Ark., 72401.

"End? No, the journey doesn't end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take." Gandalf, The Return of the King.

Services will be held at the Twelve 5 Church, in Jonesboro, today at 11 a.m., with burial in Forrest Park Cemetery, in Forrest City. Visitation will be at 10 a.m., until the time of the service. Stevens Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online registry: www. stevensfuneralhome.net