Thomas Wayne Cross

Thomas Wayne Cross, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026, surrounded by his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, extended family, and dear friends.

Tom was born on June 2, 1950, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Ruby and Romus Cross. He graduated from Christian Brothers College, where he played baseball, beginning a lifelong love of sports, competition, and friendship.

After college, Tom began his career as a sales representative with Union Carbide, which evolved into the First Brands Corporation. This is where he spent the majority of his professional career in senior-level management, overseeing a network of national brands. Over more than 40 successful years, Tom was known not only as a dedicated and accomplished professional, but also as a mentor and leader who was always advocating for “my guys.” He took great pride in the people he worked alongside, building lasting relationships that extended far beyond the workplace. Many of those friendships remained an important part of Tom’s life until his passing.

Outside of work, Tom found his greatest joy in the people he loved. He could often be found on the golf course with friends, traveling with his wife, Jani, or enjoying time at the beach surrounded by his family and grandchildren. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and loved, and his friendships were among the great joys of his life.

Tom is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jani Cross of Durham; his son, Anthony Cross of Austin; his daughter, Lauren Margulies, and son-in-law, Eric Margulies, of Raleigh; and his daughter, Whitney Cross, of Austin. He was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren: Carson, Dean, Casey, Georgia, and Everett.

He is also survived by his brother, James Cross, and sisters, Peggy Stehling and Eloise Townsend, along with many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends.

Tom's final days reflected the life he lived, with the people he loved most by his side. His family is deeply touched and grateful for the many who traveled, from Austin, Alabama, Dallas, Memphis, Atlanta, Arkansas, Oregon, and South Carolina to be with him and surround him with love.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at North Ridge Country Club in Raleigh, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Tom's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a charity close to his heart.

Tom will be remembered for his warmth, loyalty, generosity, sense of humor, and the lasting friendships he made throughout his life. Most of all, he will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him, love him, and call him family or friend.