June Cross

June Cross, born on June 29, 1933, in Lebanon, Kansas, passed away on January 4, 2026, in Liberal, Kansas. Throughout her life, June exemplified the true spirit of dedication and love, with her most cherished role as a devoted teacher and mother.

She had a significant impact on the lives of countless children through her career in education, and she specialized as a reading specialist, a position that allowed her to help young learners develop foundational skills that would serve them for a lifetime.

June  was not only passionate about education but also provided unwavering support for her husband, Tom Nelson Cross, throughout his own teaching and coaching career. Their partnership was one marked by collaboration and mutual growth, leaving a legacy of commitment to education in their community.

A long-time member of the College Church of the Nazarene, June's  faith was an integral part of her life. She participated actively in church activities and made many lasting friendships within her congregation, embodying the church's values of love, service, and leadership.

Her memory will be celebrated by her loving daughter, Shari (Cliff) Abbott, her grandchildren Bo (Kristen) Abbott, Blake (Lauren) Abbott, Bram (Bethani) Abbott, and Britton ( Hayleigh) Abbott, seven great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.. June's influence will resonate through her family and the many students she taught; her legacy continues to thrive through the lives she touched.

 She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Tom Cross, in 2020, and her brothers Daryl Berry, Lyle Berry and Ken Berry.  She was also preceded in death by her son, Kurt Cross, in 2015.

The visitation will be held on January 15, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at the College Church of the Nazarene located at 2020 E Sheridan St, Olathe, KS 66062. This will be followed by a funeral service beginning at 10:00 AM. A graveside service will take place later that day at Leavenworth National Cemetery, starting at 1:30 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Tom Cross Scholarship Fund established at Mid-America Nazarene University given each year to an athlete in the strength and conditioning program.

June will be remembered not only for her remarkable contributions to education but also for her kind heart and dedication to her family and community. She leaves behind a legacy that will forever be cherished by her loved ones and those who had the privilege of knowing her.