Thomas Cross

Thomas Raymond “Ray” Cross, a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2025 at the age of 88. Born in 1936 to Helen and Hugh Cross, he was the 12th of 13 children and spent his early life in Baltimore, Maryland, surrounded by his large, close-knit family.

Ray was a proud graduate of Loyola Blakefield and Loyola University, where his lifelong love story with Marianne Haefeli began. The two were married in July of 1962 and built a joyful life together, eventually settling in Columbia, Maryland. There, they lovingly raised their three children—Stacie, Alicia, and Sebastian—and became beloved neighbors and friends, especially to the families from their children’s schools and the community where Marianne taught.

Ray spent his career in sales, where his natural charisma, warmth, and easy charm served him well. But his favorite role was far from the office—he was most at home cheering from the sidelines, coaching various sports teams, umpiring baseball games, or officiating swim meets as a stroke and turn judge with a grin on his face. A fiercely loyal and deeply supportive father and grandfather, he made it his mission to show up for his family, every step of the way.

Vacations, especially the family’s beach trips, were sacred. He relished time spent around the table with his loved ones, particularly when Maryland steamed crabs were involved. A lifelong fan of the Baltimore Orioles and Colts (and eventually the Ravens), Ray remained loyally optimistic—sometimes defiantly so—even through the rough seasons.

Known for his integrity, his fierce love for his family, and his boundless sense of humor, Ray could light up a room with a quick one-liner or a well-timed joke. He had a joke for every occasion—hundreds of them, in fact—and he told them all with flawless delivery.

After retiring, Ray moved to the Heritage Harbor community in Annapolis, where he enjoyed golf, bowling, and perfecting his pool game. There, he also spent 12 happy years with his companion, Pam Cade, whose friendship and care brought him great joy in his later years.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 40 years, Marianne Haefeli Cross; his cherished son, Sebastian Cross; and his twelve brothers and sisters. He is survived by his loving daughters, Stacie Cross and Alicia Jenkins; son-in-law Rob Jenkins; daughter-in-law Kerri Cross, her husband Will Phillips, and their family; and his grandchildren Hayden, Noah, and Ethan Binnix; Cole, Quinn, and Clare Jenkins; and Kylee and Lauren Cross. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Charlotte Cross and his dear companion Pam Cade.

Ray lived a full, vibrant life—rich in laughter, grounded in love, and anchored by faith and family. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and unforgettable stories that will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be profoundly missed by all.

The family will have a celebration of life in late spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ray’s memory to The David N. Bates and Richard B. Vincent Foundation ℅ the Maryland Lawyer Assistance Program 520 W. Fayette Street Baltimore, MD 21201.