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Mary Christine "Chris" Cress, 76, of Fairdale, Kentucky, peacefully passed away on Sunday, June 29, 2025. Born on January 15, 1949, in Louisville, Kentucky, she was the daughter of James and Gracie (Gross) Elmore. Mary was a devoted member of AMVets Club 61 and VFW Post 1181 located on Blevins Gap Road.
Mary was a loving wife, mother, cherished memaw, and a dear friend to many. She had a deep passion for family and found joy in every moment spent with her loved ones. Her commitment to service was evident through the countless hours she volunteered, particularly in couponing and creating care packages for veterans. Mary was known for her wonderful sense of humor, always ready with a joke to share, and her enthusiasm for collecting Santa Clauses, which even earned her features on local news.
Mary is preceded in death by her father, James T. Elmore; her mother, Gracie (James) Grant; and her beloved daughter, Tina Lightfoot. She is survived by her loving husband of 29 years, Norman Charles Cress, her daughters, Lisa (Dennis) Harris, Melissa (BJ) Nevil, Kimberlee (Dallas) Dorilas, and Christine (Jacob) Blankenship; 19 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; her sister, Mae (Jeff) Lanham; along with numerous nieces, nephews, family members, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Visitation will take place from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Newcomer Cremations, Funerals & Receptions - Southwest Louisville Chapel (10304 Dixie Hwy). A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday at the same location, with burial to follow at Bethany Memorial Cemetery in Louisville, Kentucky.
To honor Mary’s life and share memories, the family invites you to visit the guestbook below. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
10304 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY 40272


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