Myrtle Ruth Cross

She was born on October 31, 1939, in Chattanooga to the late Robert & Lorine (Whittle) Hill.

Myrtle loved the Lord and she loved to sing. She and her family spent many years traveling and ministering through Southern Gospel Music. On the weekends she was on the road with her family and dear friends spreading the Word of God in song. She had a beautiful Alto voice and her family knows she is a welcome addition to the Heavenly Chorus.

Her youth was in Apison, TN in a home filled with the love of God, nature, gardening, animals and helping others. These things were taught to Myrtle and her siblings by witnessing the example of their mother Lorine Hill.

Hard work was in Myrtle’s DNA. She worked full time as a cashier at Ryall Springs grocery store and The Food King in East Brainerd. She landed a job at McKee Bakery and flew up the plant ladder with her work ethics. She took great pride in her last role as Creamer Capper Operator on the delicious Oatmeal Cream Pie line.

She retired from that position and stayed home with the love of her life, Lawrence “Jet” Cross. She became a caretaker for her beloved Jet until his passing.

Her health declined and she lived her final years at Martin Boyd Christian Home. Myrtle was loved like family by many staff members. Thank You to Hospice of Chattanooga for providing such great care in her final month.

She was preceded in death by her siblings, Melba Stafford and Leonard Hill.

Survivors include her children, Sheila Knight (Brian Knight) of Harrison, TN and Wayne Cross (Cheryl Cross) of Apison, TN, Phil Cross (Connie Cross) of Calhoun, GA; grandchildren, Austin Knight, Myranna Morris, Brittany Cross, Bryan French, Brian Presson, Gavin Cross, Roman Presson, Isaac Presson and Lilah Myer; and sister, Thelma Hullender.

The family will receive friends Wednesday, January 7, 2026, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the funeral home. Funeral services will begin at 12:00 PM in the chapel with Donnie Stafford officiating.

Interment will follow at Lakewood Memory Gardens, East.

Memorial contributions may be made to Martin-Boyd Christian Home, 6845 Standifer Gap Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Arrangements are by the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist, 7414 Old Lee Hwy., Chattanooga, TN 37421.

Please share your thoughts and memories at www.ChattanoogaValleyViewChapel.com.