Colonel Dennis Dale Cross

Dennis Dale Cross was born on August 29, 1947, near Guthrie, Texas. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents—Von Ed (Dink) Cross and Maybelle Cross—and sister Shirley Williams. Dennis is survived by his wife, Linda Cross, two brothers, Gerald and David Cross, nephew Ron Williams and niece Risa Rowell. He had three sons; Jon David Cross and his wife Becky—Jeffrey Todd Cross—and Jeffery Allen Mullins and his wife Julianne. He had eight grandchildren: Justin and Jason Cross—Kaia, Chase, Nicholas Cross—Taylor, Addison, and Sidney Mullins. Dennis spent the first 18 years of his life on the farm in Finney. After his military career, his love for West Texas and the farming lifestyle eventually led him back to Paducah.

Dennis graduated from Guthrie High School in 1965, playing center on the 6-man football team and working at the Texaco station anytime he was not helping on the farm. After high school, he attended Texas Tech University before enlisting in the Army in 1967. Following Flight School and Officer Candidate School, he was assigned to the 228th Aviation Battalion, 1st Calvary Division. He served two tours and flew over 1300 combat flight hours in Vietnam. Later, Dennis was instrumental in the battalion’s helicopter modernization from AH-1S Cobras to the AH-64A Apache Attack Helicopter with the 227th Aviation Regiment at Fort Hood, Texas. His battalion was the first divisional unit to receive the Apache. Dennis’ service awards included the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, 49 air medals, and Army Commendation Medal. Dennis finished his Bachelor’s Degree in Management at North Texas State University and a Master’s in Industrial Engineering from Kansas State University. Colonel Cross spent 26 years in the United States Army and retired from active duty in 1993.  

Dennis, or “DC” as many called him, was married to Linda Cross for 46 years. They met, were married in Clarksville, Tennessee, and lived wherever the Army sent him. They spent their most treasured years in Paducah working hand in hand. Dennis loved the ranch life, whether working cattle, farming wheat, repairing fences and equipment, or helping others at the feed store.  Dennis made friends everywhere he went and loved to be with people. Dennis’ hospitality and heart for service were continuously displayed as he served the community.