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"You haven't lived until you've lived with a scientist," said Pamela Griffin of her father. She recalls the presence of many of his research projects, such as the brown recluse, or violin spider, and chiggers about their home. Cross, retired Professor Emeritus of Biology at Georgia State University, devoted many of his 96 years to scientific study, particularly entomology, the study of insects. He credited his longevity to genetics and "good living"
Among the many things Cross taught his family was to "try your best at whatever you do... be the best at it you can be," Griffin said. Her father taught by example. The Wilson, La., native earned his undergraduate and master's degree at LSU before going on to earn his Ph.D. from the University of Maryland. He also did graduate work at Duke and Emory University. Research studies for the USDA took him to Pakistan, Canada and Alaska. During his long career, Cross published many scientific papers and books.
Cross loved to impart his passion and knowledge. "If you wanted to talk to him about science, he would always start at the very, very beginning and go to the end. There really wasn't a simple question with him," Griffin said of his in-depth explanations. He also took a personal interest in his students and kept in contact with many of them over the years. Griffin sums up her father simply, "He was so sweet. I lost my love."
Dr. Cross is survived by his wife of 66 years Mary Cross; son James F. Cross of Conyers; daughters Pamela (Cecil) Griffin of Conyers, Mary B. Badeaux and family of Destrehan, La.; grandchildren Robin (Michael) Wright of Conyers, Flynn (Ellen) Cross of Alexandria, La.; niece, Virgie (Jim) Ford of Wilson, La.. Contributions may be made to Heartland Hospice, 1374 Manchester Drive, Conyers, Ga. 30012 or your favorite charity.