Ira Cross, Jr

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.