Stella D. Cross

Stella D. Cross, age 77, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. She was born on August 10, 1947 in Neenah, WI

Stella was a graduate of Appleton West High School Class of 1965. On October 16, 1971, she married the love of her life, Jay Cross, at Calvary Baptist Church and together they raised their son, Kevin. Stella worked as a crossing guard for 30 years with the Appleton Police Department and later for 5 years with the Kimberly Police Department. She was much more than a crossing guard-she was a light in her community. Known for her playful sense of humor, she brightened every day with her collection of whimsical and crazy hats, each more outrageous than the last, which never failed to bring a smile to the faces of the children she helped. Her ability to make even the most routine moments feel special was a testament to her big heart and unyielding kindness. Stella created so many wonderful memories throughout her 35 years of service and was extremely proud to be a member of the police department serving her community and keeping the children and community safe.

Stella had a passion for upcycling different trinkets and treasures and gifting them to her family and friends. Her thoughtful presents were always a reflection of her creativity and love for those close to her. Stella also loved going for drives with her sister, Martha, visiting different flea markets shopping trips to Costco and Sam’s Club. In addition to her thoughtful and caring nature, Stella was also known for her spirited personality. She loved dressing up for different holidays and special events which always brought an extra touch of fun to every gathering. Stella was also an avid sports fan, always cheering on the Packers, Brewers, and Badgers. Above all else, family was most important to Stella and her love for her family extended to her beloved pets as well, especially her cat, Amy. Stella will be remembered for her wonderful sense of humor, kindness, and big heart. She will be greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to meet her.

Stella is survived by her loving husband, Jay; her son, Kevin (fiancé Jaclene) Cross; sisters: Martha Fowler and Sandra (Cliff) Niemuth; nephew, Brian (Michelle) Niemuth; sister-in-law, Betty Mauthe; and brothers-in-law: Ed Cross and Wayne Beck.

She was preceded in death by her parents: Horace and Geraldine Fowler; Jay’s parents: Wayne and Ethel Cross; brothers and sisters-in-law: Louie Mauthie, Clyde (Mary Jo) Cross, Jim (Janine) Cross, and Jean Cross.

A Funeral Service for Stella will be held on Monday, April 7, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N. Richmond St., Appleton. Visitation will begin at the funeral home at 12:30 p.m. and will continue until the time of the service. Stella will be laid to rest in Oak Hill Cemetery in Neenah. For online condolences, please visit www.valleyfh.com.

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