Pat Cross

Shirley “Pat” Morgan Cross, born February 5, 1934, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, on May 28th, 2026.

Pat was a lifelong resident of East Texas and dedicated her life to caring for others. She attended Tyler High School and Tyler Junior College before pursuing her passion for nursing at Texas Eastern School of Nursing. She graduated as a Registered Nurse in 1952 and was a member of the first class at Texas Eastern School of Nursing to be capped. Her nursing career spanned 56 years, reflecting a remarkable commitment to her profession and to the countless patients whose lives she touched.

A lifelong member of Green Acres Baptist Church, Pat lived out her faith through service to others. She volunteered countless hours with the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary and was also a past member of the Women’s Symphony League. Whether through her church, her community involvement, or her nursing career, Pat was always ready to lend a helping hand to those around her.

Pat was known for her quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and ability to make others smile. Her warm personality, compassionate heart, and gift for conversation made her a cherished friend and beloved “Nana”. She had a way of brightening any room she entered and leaves behind countless treasured memories.

Nana’s greatest joy was her family, and she was a constant presence in the lives of her granddaughters. She never missed a sporting event, recital, school program, or special milestone, always cheering them on with pride and enthusiasm. Some of her granddaughter’s fondest memories are of the countless lunches they shared with Nana at Andy Woods, where she made each visit feel special and filled with laughter, love, and conversation.

Pat was preceded in death by her husband, James Robert “Bob” Cross, her parents, Virgil and Mildred Morgan, and her best friend and sister, Virginia Barron.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Patti Ellis; her three granddaughters, Amy Ashwood (Brandon), Lindsay Wampler (John), and Emily Roberts (Marc); and her ten cherished great-grandchildren, Ellis Ann, Betsy, and Mimi Ashwood; Harlan, McCall, Wynne, and Lake Wampler; and Campfield, Hayes, and Clayton Roberts.

Pat is also survived by her son, Michael Matise (Sandra) of Florida, as well as two granddaughters, Cynthia and Michelle.

Pat will be remembered for her faith, her dedication to caring for others, her generous spirit, and the love she shared with her family and friends. Her legacy of service, kindness, and laughter will continue to live on in the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.