Donna Marie Cross

Donna Marie Souder Cross, 75, of Dry Ridge, KY, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday February 17, 2026 at her residence. Born on June 19, 1950 in Grant County, KY, she was the daughter of the late Bernard and Marie Breeden Souder.

On September 1, 1974, she was united in marriage to Dale William Cross; he survives. She was a graduate of Simon Kenton High School and attended Cumberland College on a Cheerleading Scholarship. She was a member of the Williamstown Methodist Church.  For many years she was the Williamstown Secretary for Williamstown Schools. She spent her retirement caring for her grandchildren, reading, working puzzles, and visiting Gatlinburg as much as possible. Her greatest joy was cheering on the sidelines for Henry and Norah, and any other kid who happened to be on the team. She also loved getting to see Peter, no matter how far she had to walk at Children's Hospital. She cherished her breakfast with Vera, who loviningly called her "Nan". 

She leaves to mourn her loss and celebrate her legacy, her husband of almost 52 years, Dale Cross; her son, Chris (Melissa) Cross of Crittenden, KY; two brothers: William (Brenda) Souder of Corinth, KY, Kevin Lawrence of Dry Ridge, KY; three sisters: Johanna (Jerry) Spegal of Piner, KY, Cheryl (Greg) Samples of Gainesville, GA, Pamela Winn of Independence, KY and a sister-in-law, Sandy Cross of Williamstown, KY. Also surviving are three grandchildren: Henry, Norah and Vera and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a grandson, Peter Cross; a brother-in-law, Terry Cross and a sister, Attie Niehaus Miller.

Visitation will be Monday February 23, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. at Stanley Funeral Homes – Williamstown. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 with Greg Samples officiating. Interment will follow in the Hill Crest Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been requested to Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, PO Box 5202, Cincinnati, OH  45201-5202.