Arthur Cross
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Arthur “Bill” W. Cross, who was called home Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025, at the age of 89. Born Dec. 28, 1935, in Schenectady, New York, Bill lived a full and adventurous life, ultimately settling in Dunnellon. He proudly served in the United States Navy for 20 years, achieving the esteemed rank of Chief Petty Officer. He and his wife traveled the world and made friends that lasted a lifetime. His dedication to his country was a testament to his character, but it was his deep love for God and family that truly defined him. He was a man of unwavering faith, his prayers always ending with the powerful words “in Jesus Name.” His love for God shone brightly through his actions, serving as a source of hope and inspiration for others. He exemplified partnership and love throughout his life with his lovely and strong wife, Betty Cross. They would have been married 67 years on Saturday, Feb. 15! Above all, he was an incredible father. He cherished his children, Wendy (Tollie) Carter, Steven (Yazmin) Cross, Deborah (Keith) Maloney and Karen (George) Zackschewski, and took immense pride in their accomplishments. His guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support shaped not only their lives, but also the lives of his 10 grandchildren, who adored him. He was a loving grandfather who illuminated every family gathering with his warmth and humor, creating cherished memories that will forever resonate in their hearts. He was a proud great-grandfather to two great-grandchildren, whose smiles brought him endless joy. An adventurer at heart, he held a private pilot’s license and enjoyed many other various hobbies. Yet, it was the time spent with family that truly fulfilled him, whether telling stories, sharing laughter, or simply being present, he embraced every moment with love. As we gather to say goodbye to this wonderful man, we will do so with a mix of tears and laughter. He had a marvelous sense of humor, and we know he’d want us to celebrate his life rather than mourn his passing. We’ll reminisce about his unforgettable quirks; how he always insisted on being the one behind the camera during family gatherings and how he somehow managed to turn every serious moment into a reason to laugh. With a heavy heart, we say goodbye to a man who will be missed dearly, but whose spirit and laughter will resonate in our hearts forever. Rest in peace, Bill. Your love for God and your family will be your eternal legacy. Your laughter will echo in our memories, and your love will live on in our hearts. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur J. Cross and Ruth E. Cross; and sister, Shirley Moschetto.
His life will be celebrated with a gathering of family and friends. Details regarding the memorial service will be shared soon, and we invite everyone who knew and loved him to come together to honor his remarkable journey. Funeral services were held Friday, Feb. 14, 2025, at First Assembly of God. Burial followed at Keystone Heights Cemetery.
Arrangements were by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home of Keystone Heights, 352-473-3176.
PAID OBITUARY
Gary Hampton
OK, here’s the deal I didn’t wake up this morning, I don’t appear to be in a coma, but I am lying down and, so far, haven’t gone to the bathroom. What’s worse, I don’t have the urge to go to the bathroom, nor is the bed wet, so the answer appears to be the one I wasn’t quite ready for yet. I’m dead. So, for my family, friends, and anyone else who liked me, sorry, I won’t be seeing you anymore. For those who were looking for this event, here it is, go ahead and shout or do whatever else you think is appropriate in your celebration. Stop the hollering!!! And the traditional work of my passing follows.
Gary Hampton left his world at home near Keystone Heights on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. Born in Columbus, Ohio on Jan. 9, 1942, as the first child in the Hampton family to be born outside of Southeast Kentucky. He was 82. He was the first son and second child of four to be born to his parents, Anthony Hampton and Georgia Marie (Howell) Hampton, both deceased. His daughter, Kimberly Glyn DeShon, Arbutis, (known as “Arti”); younger brother, Barry Lester; and younger sister, Lydia Fern Banks, are deceased. A sister, Angela (Michael) Stall was born to subsequent marriage by his father, Anthony, who was born in Millstone, (Letcher), Kentucky on Jan. 25, 1913, and his mother, Georgia, was born in McDowell (Floyd), Kentucky on Aug. 6, 1923. The family lived in Kentucky and Columbus, Ohio during World War II, then Fairborn, Ohio, moved to Detroit, Michigan in 1949, then moved back to Fairborn, Ohio on July 4, 1956. For Gary, it was a happy childhood. The family had no money, but it was a loving family, and it was displayed daily. Gary graduated from Fairborn High School in 1958 and joined the Navy on Feb. 28, 1959. He had a burning desire to get out and see the world, and the Navy was the way. He entered the Navy as an Airman Recruit and, over the course of the next 30 years, he advanced through the enlisted ranks, to warrant officer, and then was selected as a Navy Limited Duty Officer, with the specialty of aircraft maintenance and retired after 30 years at the grade of Lieutenant Commander. After the first four years, he left the Navy for a short time and met a girl who became his wife and the mother of his children, Saundria June Patterson. She was a devoted Navy wife and wonderful mother. Now divorced, Mrs. Hampton resides in Orange Park. Gary proudly served in Vietnam in 1970, after which he was selected for a Navy program which led to a college degree from the University of West Florida in 1973. After leaving the Navy in 1989, he pursed a civil service career as the Training Systems Program manager for the H-46 Marine Corps helicopter and retired totally in 2004. His passions include the POW/MIA organization, Rolling Thunder, and motorcycles. He and his wife, Rachel, took many motorcycle rides all over the U.S., and a two-week touring ride on a Harley in China and greatly enjoyed those adventures and many others. He is a proud member of Rolling Thunder Florida Chapter 4, a 50-plus year member of the Fleet Reserve Association, and a life member of the Military Officers Association of America.
His survivors include his devoted wife, Rachel Ann Hampton of New Jersey; son-in-law, Rick DeShong; son, Gary Anthony Hampton and daughter-in-law, Amy (McCLure); grandson, Gary Cole Hampton; former spouse, Saundria June Hampton; sister, Angela Stall; nieces, Amber, Dawn, and April; nephews. Michael, James, Barry Lester Jr., Scott, and Tony; and many grandnieces and nephews. In addition, he had a stepdaughter, Melissa; three stepsons, Matt, Mark, and Miles; and seven grandchildren, Miles Hudson II, Layla, Andrew, and Emma Hudson, Emilia Connor, Violet Hudson, and Nevaeh Martin.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, April 10, with Pastor Glenn Creasey officiating. Interment will be at Keystone Heights Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Wounded Warrior Project or Parkinson’s Foundation.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
James Young
In Loving Memory. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Earl Young, who left us Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at the age of 90. He was a cherished member of our community and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Born June 3, 1934, in Hinton, West Virginia, he led a life filled with love, joy, and dedication. He was a devoted father and a loyal friend to many. His warmth, kindness, and generosity touched the lives of everyone he met. He pursued his passion for motorcycles and made significant contributions to the motorcycle community. He and his wife, Eleanor, started a Kawasaki dealership in Port Richey in 1972, named Pasco Cycle, which lasted until 1998, when he sold the business. His commitment and hard work earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers. Beyond his business achievements, he and Eleanor are known for their love of motorcycle drag racing, which brought them great happiness and respect in the motorcycle drag racing community. He received numerous awards including most contributive to the sport. In times of joy and sorrow, he was a pillar of strength for his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Patti Jane Young; and son, James Cliff Young.
He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Dorothy Eleanor Young; Vicki Young Johnson and Monty Steve Young; grandson, Jeremy M. (Elizabeth) Johnson and Kyle J. (Mika) Young; great- granddaughters, Koko and Niko Johnson; as well as many other relatives and dear friends. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 26, at 11 a.m. at Trinity Baptist Church in Keystone Heights. Family and friends are invited to gather and remember the beautiful moments shared with James. As we say goodbye to James, we take comfort in knowing that his legacy of love and kindness will endure. He will be profoundly missed, but never forgotten. Because of his faith in Jesus Christ, he will rest in peace.
Arrangements are by Jones-Gallagher Funeral Home, 340 E. Walker Drive, Keystone Heights 32656. 352-473-3176. www.jonesgallagherfh.com
PAID OBITUARY
