Larry Cross

LAUREL — Larry Cross, 71, Laurel, died Oct. 30, 2025, at Providence Medical Center, Wayne. An Open House Celebration of Larry’s life will be held 2-4 p.m., Nov. 16, at the United Presbyterian Church, Laurel. Larry Ray was born July 17, 1954, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Fred Wilbur and Anna Mae (Anderson) Cross. He attended school and was a joyful presence in the community of Laurel. Larry was baptized, confirmed, and was a faithful member at the United Presbyterian Church, Laurel, where he also served as a deacon. Larry’s special tape ministry, which he began at the church, touched the lives of many. He delivered recorded church services to shut-ins, and also recorded weddings and funerals for the families. Larry had a heart to serve his community and he genuinely enjoyed people. He was a member of the Laurel Fire department and the Laurel Lions Club. In 1990, Larry was chosen for “The Good Neighbor of Laurel” award by the Chamber of Commerce. He received “The Outstanding Citizen Award” in 1991. In May 1998, Larry received an appreciation award for his volunteer support with the Laurel Ultreya group at the Yankton Federal Prison Camp, Yankton, S.D. The top award from the Lions Club, the “Melvin Jones Award,” was presented to Larry in 2020. He then received a certificate at the 2021 Great Plains Lions Leadership Institute. That same year, he received the “International President Certificate of Appreciation,” which is the third highest award from the top. He became the Laurel Lions Club President in 2022 and currently held that office. During his time with the Lions Club, Larry advocated for many individuals and families to receive assistance with glasses, school supplies, and other needs they had. He also helped furnish the Laurel-Concord-Coleridge Middle School with a large tool box.

Larry was dedicated to his family, friends and community. He worked at the Wagon Wheel Steakhouse in Laurel for 10 years and then worked for the City of Laurel for 44 years. Larry did this with a smile on his face and a friendly wave “hello” out of the garbage truck.

Larry loved to socialize and be among his friends whenever possible. If there was a community, church, or school event, Larry was there.

Larry enjoyed bowling, spending time on computers and tinkering with technology. He loved to connect with people. His contact list was seemingly a never ending rolodex. Many will miss his phone calls checking in. All will miss his consistent joyful presence.

At the center of his life and the motivation for his actions, dwelled Larry’s love for Jesus. Larry was instrumental in bringing Gospel artist Gary Randall to the Laurel community to do the “Watch the Lamb” productions of which Larry recruited volunteers and directed the play. In his final hours, Larry was worshipping alongside Gary’s music and made it known that he was ready to be with Jesus forever.

Larry is survived by sisters, Sandra Cross, Laurel; Linda (Doug) Carr, Richmond, Va.; one niece, Jennifer (Carr) and Christopher Berg and family, Bremerton, Wash.; and nephew Jason and Julie Carr and family, Richmond, Va.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Anna Mae Cross. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Larry’s name to the Laurel EMS.