Donald Cross

Donald Cross, 88, of Phoenix, AZ, passed away on March 29th, 2023. Don was born on November 6, 1934 to Bert and Dorothy Cross in New York. His family, that included 2 brothers moved to Phoenix, when Don was 7. Don graduated from Phoenix Union High School in 1952, he went on to study Art and Education at Phoenix College .

After graduating with a degree in Education, he started his first job at David Crockett School in 1963, as a teacher, kickstarting a 33-year career in education. He joked that he needed to retire when he was teaching the grandkids of the first kids he taught. He loved the carnivals that the school had and was always helping out in the kitchen and loved the school and the children he taught.

In 1962, Don met Joanne on a blind date in Illinois with the help from his brother Jim. Don and Joanne went on to have 1 child, Maria. When Maria was old enough, he took her on digs for rocks as he loved geology.

In 1996 Don retired and spent his time building model trains, having a beer at the Ole Brass Rail, and eating chocolate. Don loved listening to classical music, reading, and watching British Comedy TV.

He is survived by his wife Joanne of 60 years of marriage, his daughter Maria and granddaughter Alyssa, along with many nieces and nephews.

Memorial service is to be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com.