Submitted by:
John Long
Chief Chaplain

It is with deep sadness that we inform our members of the passing of Chief James “Eddie” Cross. Chief Cross passed away on Sunday September 13, 2020, after a long fought battle with lung cancer. Eddie was surrounded by his loving family when he peacefully passed.

Eddie served the MSFA as an Assistant Secretary 1993-2004 and 2006-2008. He served on the convention committee 2004-2006. He was inducted into the MSFA Hall of Fame in 1997.

James “Eddie” Cross, age 62 of Bridgeville, DE, passed away on Sunday, September 13, 2020 at home in Bridgeville, DE, after a long battle with cancer. He was born on June 24, 1958, in Upper Marlboro, MD, son of the late James and Genevieve (Ridgely) Cross.

Mr. Cross proudly served as a volunteer firefighter for 40 years. He was a fire chief with the U.S. Department of the Navy, a past president of the Maryland Fire Chiefs Association, a member of the Maryland State Fireman’s Association, a past chief of the Brandywine Volunteer Fire Company, and a member of the Prince George’s County Arson Task Force. Mr. Cross enjoyed grilling, telling Dad jokes and being a Pap-Pap to his grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sheila (Hayes) Cross; his daughters: Nichole, Christina and her husband Max, Kristy and her husband Richard, Stephanie, Becca, and Holly; His son, Andrew; his grandchildren: Ruby, Ryan and Jake; his sister, Edna Hudson; his niece, Kathleen; and his nephew, Michael.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 18, 2020 at 3:00 PM at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Hardesty Chapel, 202 Laws Street, Bridgeville, DE 19933 where friends may visit beginning at 2:00 PM.

An additional visitation will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2020 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Hardesty Chapel, 202 Laws Street, Bridgeville, DE 19933.

Due to the dangers associated with the spread of Covid-19, all attendees shall wear a mask and maintain social distancing at all times while attending any aspect of the funeral services.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggest contributions in Mr. Cross’ memory to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, P.O. Drawer 498, Emmitsburg, MD 21727.

Please sign the online guestbook located on the tribute page. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of James “Eddie” Cross please visit our Sympathy Store.