Kathleen A. (Merritt) Cross

Mrs. Kathleen A. (Merritt) Cross, 74, of Canton, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 15, 2018 at the Canton-Potsdam Hospital with her family at her side.

Kathleen was born August 3, 1943 in Pitcairn, New York, the daughter of the late Kenneth and Nettie (Coffey) Merritt. She graduated from Harrisville Central School. She was first married to Donald Carpenter, whom predeceased her. Then on August 14, 1981, she married Gerald D. Cross at the Colton Wesleyan Church. Kathleen started out working in housekeeping in local motels, but then committed her life to her family and became a foster parent to numerous children over the years.

Kathleen was a member of the Hastings-VanBrocklin Horseman's Association, she enjoyed knitting, crocheting and crafts and was the T.O.P.S. Queen in 1981. Faith was a large part of her life, she attended the East Pitcairn, Colton and Morley Wesleyan Churches throughout the years.

Kathleen is survived by her husband of 36 years, Gerald of Canton; sons, Gerald W. Cross (Sadie Nisbeth) of Canton; Joseph W. Cross of Saranac Lake; David Carpenter of Edwards; and a daughter, Grace M. (Rex Jr.) Cross-Burns of Pierrepont; as well as many grand and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and foster children.

She is predeceased by two sons, James and Phillip Carpenter and by all of her siblings.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, May 20, 2018 from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm and again on Monday, May 21, 2018 from 11:00 am until the time of the funeral service at 12:00 pm; all at the Morley Wesleyan Church.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the Morley Wesleyan Church at 7254 CR 27; Canton, New York 13617 or to the Canton Rescue Squad at 77 Riverside Dr.; Canton, New York 13617.

Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.olearyfuneralservice.com. Arrangements for Mrs. Kathleen A. Cross are under the care of the O'Leary Funeral Service of Canton.