George Cross

George Archer Cross was born on September 23, 1922, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Andrew and Portia Cross. He spent his formative years in Southern Illinois where he excelled as a student and worked on the family farm. Drafted into military service weeks before graduating from Illinois State University, Mr. Cross served in the U.S. Army from 1943-1946, rising to the rank of Sergeant. He served as Water Service Supervisor, earning several decorations and citations, including 3 overseas service bars, a service stripe, the Asiatic Pacific Ribbon with 2 Bronze Battle Stars, Good Conduct Medal, and WW2 Victory Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1946. On November 25, 1948, George married the love of his life, his "Angel" Althea Alexander. They welcomed their only child, Gene Andre, the following year. George and Althea were a perfect match and enjoyed 70 years of marriage. After an honorable discharge in 1946, Mr. Cross returned to Illinois State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences. He completed his post-graduate degree in 1952 at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, with a Masters in Educational Administration and Biology. In 1955, Mr. Cross also earned several Advanced Certificates in Education from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Employed in the Public School Systems in Cami, Illinois, Chicago, Venice, Illinois, and St. Louis, Mr. Cross retired after 53 years of leadership, mentoring, teaching, coaching, and, where necessary, disciplining. He had a firm yet calm approach to most things. An active member of various organizations before and after his 1988 retirement, George contributed to: Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church Parish Counsel/Financial Board Greater St. Louis Athletic Association (1977 Hall of Fame) Retired School Employees of St. Louis, President/Executive Board Missouri Retired Teacher Association-Phi Delta Kappa George served as the Boys' Varsity Head Basketball Coach at Hadley Tech (1956-63) and Vashon High School (1963-69), where they were the 1969 Public League Champions and made history as the first African American team to reach the Missouri state final four in the same season. To say he lived an exemplary life is not an exaggeration. He served as a role model to many—thoughtful, honest, kind, humble, helpful, generous, dependable, ethical, and brilliant. Mr. Cross leaves to cherish his memory: his grandson Gene Andre; two great-grandsons, Justin and Gavin; nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives; and former daughter-in-law and caregiver, Haroleon Cross. May we all learn and profit from his living example of love, faith, and service.

George Cross

September 23, 1922 - December 22, 2023