Ray Cross

Ray Edward Cross, age 84, of St. Johnsbury, VT passed away on Sunday, June 18, 2017, at Maple Lane Nursing Home due to failing health.

Ray was born in St. Johnsbury, VT, on January 26, 1933, to Glen and Rachel (Fleming) Cross. He was baptized at the First Congregational Church in St. Johnsbury Center where he attended until his later years, in which time he accompanied his wife, Pat at the St. John the Evangelist Church on Main Street in St. Johnsbury. He attended school in St. Johnsbury, graduating from the St. Johnsbury Trade School, Class of 1951. Ray served his country in the U. S. Navy during the Korean conflict obtaining the rank of Airman’s Electrician.  He then worked as a telephone installer/repairman for over 30 years for New England Telephone.  On October 29, 1952, Ray married Patricia Mae Bedard. Ray was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Ray loved riding motorcycles. He was a member of the Harley Owners Group (HOG). He was Road Captain for Wilkins Harley-Davidson of South Barre, VT for over 15 years.  Ray enjoyed over 30 years of retirement wintering in Florida. He was active in The Holiday Travel Resort Theater Group of Florida, singing and playing his beloved harmonica.  He also liked hunting, fishing, square dancing, and arts & crafts.

Ray is survived by his wife of nearly 65 years; Patricia Cross of Lyndonville, VT; two sons; Michael Cross and companion Patricia Noyes of North Carolina, Paul Cross and wife, Susan of Connecticut; one daughter; Reneé Simons and husband David of St. Johnsbury, VT; 9 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and many close friends.

He was predeceased by his mother, father and two sisters; Ruby Flanders and Esther Montgomery.

Visitation will be on Saturday, June 24, 2017, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Sayles Funeral Home, on Summer St. in St. Johnsbury, VT; concluded by a prayer service officiated by John Sleeper.  Burial will immediately follow at the St. Johnsbury Center Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in Ray’s name to the Lyndon Area Meal Site at the Darling Inn, 76 Depot St., Lyndonville, VT, 05851.

Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.guibordfh.com