Charles Winfred Cross
Charles Winfred Cross, 90, of Pine Bluff, passed away on Monday, December 11, 2023 in Rogers, Ark., after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was born on December 11, 1933 in Rosston, Ark. His parents were Garland Earl (Pat) Cross and Veron Cottingham Cross. He grew up in Hope, Ark., graduating from Hope High School in 1951. As a young man, he learned how to fly airplanes, and flying became a lifetime passion of his. He married Wanda Lee Burton on October 16, 1953, and they were married for 52 years.
Charles attended Southern State College at Magnolia, Ark., (now Southern Arkansas University), and he graduated from Texas Tech University in 1961 with a degree in chemical engineering. After graduating college, he and his family moved back to Arkansas and he worked at the Pine Bluff Arsenal from 1961 to 1970, conducting biological research. He then began working as a mill supervisor at International Paper Company in Pine Bluff from 1970 to 2005, when he retired. He traveled extensively with his job at IP, frequently going to Finland, as well as other mills throughout the United States.
After retirement, he and Wanda enjoyed traveling, and they went on several trips with groups from both Pine Bluff National Bank and Simmons First National Bank. His last trip was to Israel with a group led by Reverend Siegfried Johnson, a former pastor of Wesley United Methodist Church. Charles was a devoted member of Wesley Methodist Church and served in various capacities there. He was an avid fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, the Texas Tech Red Raiders, and the University of Arkansas Razorbacks. He loved studying history and was particularly interested in all topics concerning World War II.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Rebecca Fern Cross, and his beloved wife, Wanda. He is survived by his daughter, Kay Cross Toole and his son-in-law, Dr. Drew W. Toole, both of Rogers, three grandchildren: Dr. Katherine Toole (Dr. Jeremy Smith), of Rogers, Daniel Toole (April), of Bentonville, Ark., and Dr. Emily Townsend (Tyler) of Fayetteville, Ark. He also has 10 great-grandchildren: Kendall, Luke, and Caleb Behrents, Tucker, Griffin, Sadie, and Charlie Toole, and Elliott, Halle, and Veda Townsend. He was devoted to his family, and we will miss our “Papa Cross” very much.
A memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Saturday, December 16 at 11 a.m. at Wesley United Methodist Church in Pine Bluff by Ralph Robinson and Son. Rev. Siegfried Johnson and Rev. Larry Gragg will officiate. His interment will be held at a later date in Rogers.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wesley United Methodist Church, 3010 Hazel Street, Pine Bluff, Ark., 71603, or the Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch at www.youthranches.com. Online guestbook at www.ralphrobinsonandson.com.