Essie Collean Cross

Essie retired from the ATT telephone company, bringing to her work the same reliability and care that defined the way she moved through the world—thoughtful, conscientious, and always mindful of others.

A woman of enduring faith, Essie was a longtime member of Judson Baptist Church. Her generosity was expressed not in grand gestures, but in the consistent, selfless ways she showed up—through presence, kindness, and the simple grace of being someone others could count on.

Essie found joy in the comforts of home and the pleasures of a well-spent afternoon. She loved sewing, reading, and crossword puzzles—interests that reflected her patience, attentiveness, and the quiet satisfaction she took in creating, learning, and solving what lay before her. She also enjoyed the fellowship of a sewing club, where shared time and shared purpose brought connection and warmth.

Essie was married to James Cross, who preceded her in death.

She is survived by her nephew, Eric Anderton and best friend, Cindy Harrison.

A gathering of family and friends will be held at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 660 Thompson Ln, Nashville, TN 37204, on June 29, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm. A Celebration of Life Service will follow at the same location on June 29, 2026, from 2:30pm.

Burial will follow services in Woodlawn Memorial Park.