Ira Cross Jr. was born on March 25, 1942 in Greenville, Alabama to the late Ira and Ethlene Cross, and was the oldest of four children. In 1961, Ira moved to Columbus, Ohio. He transitioned peacefully on Monday, March 7, 2022 at the Ohio State University at the tender age of 79.
Ira, affectionately known for many names including “Slim”, “Ivy”, “Dude”, “Jr”, and, of course, “Paw Paw”, retired from Delille Oxygen after forty years of service. Ira had a passion for bowling, fishing, and hunting. In his spare time, he loved to sit on his porch and wave to everyone, play board games with his grandchildren, cut grass, grill, cook, play his numbers, listen to gospel, and deliver bounce houses with his son. He was often known for his favorite sayings of “Gots to be more careful” and “I’m telling you the truth”.
When not watching his favorite television shows, he would watch his favorite sports teams: the Cincinnati Bengals, Cincinnati Reds, and Ohio State. Most of all, Ira cherished his family.
Ira is preceded in death by his parents, Ira and Ethlene Cross and brothers, Gene and Wylie Cross Sr.
Ira leaves a legacy and precious memories to be cherished by his wife, Celestine Cross of 33 years; children, Ira Freeman (Miranda), Leah Lomax, Wanda (Ronald) Hilliard, Christine (Jerome) Woods, and Joshua Chafin; brother, David (Kim) Cross; sisters-in-law, Irma Cross and Sharon Cross; grandchildren, Taylor Lomax, Dejah Freeman, Ira Freeman, and Isaiah Freeman; goddaughter, Regina Jackson; caregivers, Schneada Chavis (niece), Paula Massey, and Jackie Gwynn; special friends, Debbie Twosome and Steve Hairston; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends.
Ira will be truly missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
Visitation 10:00am and Funeral 11:00am Thursday, March 17, 2022 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE NORTH, 2500 Cleveland Ave.
Click to View the Program
Click to View the Program
Our sincere condolences and sympathies to the family of Ira Cross, Jr. Ira (Slim) was known for his kindness and love of family. He was always there for reunions and cookouts. Ira loved fishing and would donate his time to help anyone with landscaping. We’ll miss his laughter and colorful stories. Cherished memories of Ira will always remain in our hearts.
Charlie and Thelma Cross & Family
Praying for peace and understanding to Ira Cross family. My heartfelt condolences to each one of you. I’m truly going to miss my friend my big brother. Love and God bless you all. Respectfully Deborah!
Praying for peace and comfort to the Cross family. I enjoyed taking care of Mr. Ira Cross. I enjoyed all the laughs he gave and words of wisdom he would slip out from time to time. (Smiling). Praying for you all daily God bless Love Jackie Gwynn
Praying for peace and strength for your beautiful family during this difficult time! Sending love and light.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Mr. and Mrs. J Herron & Family
My deepest condolences to Celestine and family may the father grace you and the family with his glorious peace blessing to you all betty Wade.
To my family love u all so much sending hugs pray and love to u all rest in peace love u my mom Abbie Cross talked about u often .
Sending prayers for peace, comfort, & lots of love at your time of sorrow.
My dad was one of the best. He was always there for me. He had so much knowledge about everything from cars to houses he was a awesome dad. I will forever be missing him his presence will be missed in my life. I am able to get through his death because I know he is with God now at peace
Our deepest thoughts and prayers go out to the Cross Family during this very difficult time. May your memories fill your hearts with love, peace, and laughter.
Lauren Wheeler
Port Legal
To the Cross family, it is with great sadness that we again have to say good-bye to another family member. Jr. you are loved in this life by both family and friends. I am praying for the family, God will always make Away. I understand the pain you feel, I share it with the family. I know God will see the family through all pain and sorrow .
My condolences and prayers with love ❤️ for the entire family.
John Poole and family
Our deepest thoughts and prayers go out to the Cross Family during this very difficult time. I’m going to miss Dude, Our your memories will never be forgotten.
Sending Love & Condolences and prayers to the family.
The Jackson Family.
Me and my boys lived next door to Ira from 2016-2019. Very nice and sweet man. My youngest son was a toddler at the time and would always come to you because he thought you was his
papa and you would go along with it. You had a kind heart and spirit. My deepest condolences goes out to your family. Rest easy and peacefully, until next time.
Love,
Ashlei