Karen Lemaire Cross

Karen Lois Lemaire Cross, 81, of Taunton, MA, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025, in Naples, FL. Born on January 30, 1944, in Taunton, MA to Bradford Lemaire and Claire Irving, Karen lived a life full of love, adventure, and selfless service to others. She was a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Karen spent her early years in her hometown, Taunton, MA, where she graduated from Taunton High School in 1962. Her adventurous spirit and diverse interests set her apart at a young age. She had a passion for snow skiing and cycling. She had an adventurous streak as an autocross race car driver, and a deep love for music, playing the piano with grace and joy. She was also a dedicated bowler, lover of animals, and an enthusiast for plants and birds. Karen embraced a full life with the highest purpose and energy.

Karen’s professional journey began at Texas Instruments (TI). After raising her children, Karen returned as a contractor making a significant impact as their Education-Development Coordinator. Her career was truly an expression of her love for helping others and making a difference in the community.

Karen met the love of her life, Merrill Cross, while they both worked at TI. They married on December 11, 1977, in Attleboro, MA, forming a bond that lasted a lifetime. Together, they built a beautiful family and lived in several places across the country, including Dover, DE; Colorado Springs, CO; and Kendall Lakes, FL, before settling in Norton, MA in 1986 to continue raising their children and be closer to family.

Karen’s devotion to her family was unwavering. She was a loving mother and stepmother who always put her children’s needs and dreams first. Whether it was taking them to activities, volunteering as a Girl Scout Troop Leader, or serving as a Swimming Official at her children’s swim meets, Karen was there for every moment. She also volunteered for foster children and played an integral role in various advocacy committees, demonstrating her commitment to improving the lives of others. Karen was a devoted member of the Trinitarian Congregational Church, serving as Secretary and Treasurer and singing in the choir every Sunday worship.

Her love for learning inspired Karen to pursue higher education later in life. She graduated from UMass Amherst in 2001 with a Bachelor of Arts in Adolescent Education and Development (Dean’s List and National Society of Collegiate Scholars) and went on to earn her Master of Science (MS) degree in School Counseling from Fitchburg State College in 2004, achieving a 3.76 GPA. Her crowning educational achievement was earning her MS degree, as shown below with her and her husband, Merrill, at her MS graduation.

As a School Guidance Counselor (PreK-8 and 5-12) and later as CEO of a Woman-owned business until her retirement, Karen was always helping others along the way.

In retirement, Karen and Merrill found joy in traveling, visiting their children and grandchildren, including an Alaska cruise, cherishing their time together. In the last chapter of her life, she lived with Merrill in Naples, FL, where Karen embraced the warmth of her new community and the music and membership in the Naples Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Karen was preceded in death by her sister, Marcia Lemaire Walker. She is survived by her devoted husband, Merrill Cross of Naples, FL; her son, Philip Cross of Taunton, MA; her daughter, Deanna Cross and husband Patrick Russell of Reno, NV; her stepdaughter, Katrina Lee of Naples, FL; her step-grandchildren, Victoria and Caroline Lee of Naples, FL; her brother-in-law, Gerald Walker of Valley Center, CA; her nephews, Bradford Walker and wife Gabby Walker of Valley Center, CA, and Kyle Walker and wife Alex Lautanen Walker of San Diego, CA; as well as a multitude of friends and family whose lives she touched.

Karen’s life was a testament to love, dedication, and service to others. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her deep love for her family, and her unwavering support for all those around her. Her impact will continue to be felt by all who knew her.

A celebration of Karen’s life will be held in Naples, Florida in May 2025, and in Massachusetts in June 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations in Karen’s memory may be made to the Naples Alzheimer’s Support Network at http://www.support.network

Karen’s journey was one of compassion, joy, and dedication, and though she is no longer with us, her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be missed - never forgotten.