Elaine Franke Cross, 85, wife of Claude Christopher Cross, passed away on Dec. 15, 2021, peacefully at her home surrounded by her family.
Elaine was born on September 12, 1936, in Washington D.C., daughter of the late Amos Henry Franke and Bernice (Soder) Franke. She was an amazing wife, mother, Nana, and a friend to many. She had a total devotion to the Lord.
Growing up in Silver Spring, Md., she attended Catholic Schools, graduated from Immaculata Jr. College in Washington D.C., and worked a short time as a dental assistant. During this time, she would meet the love of her life, Claude Christopher Cross, who graduated from the University of Virginia and was commissioned as an Ensign in the US Navy.
They were married on Jan. 4, 1958. Together they had four children. As the wife of a US Naval Submarine Officer, they moved their family many times over the years to various naval bases across the country, eventually settling in and around the Charleston area with another home in Flat Rock, NC
Elaine was a dynamic woman who was not only loved but a wonderful source of inspiration and entertainment for anyone fortunate enough to be in her presence.
Elaine was renowned for her sharp wit, her exceptional sense of style and her keen sense of humor as well as her commitment to the church. She excelled as a master chef, entertainer, master gardener and artist. An invitation to the Cross family home was an invitation to fine food, and a meal served with love.
She is preceded in death by her son, Thomas Christopher Cross, and her sister, Barbara Franke Hermann.
Elaine is survived by her husband of 64 years, Capt. Claude Christopher Cross, two sons, Claude Fuller Cross (Jane) of Charlotte, N.C., John Storrs Cross of McClellanville, SC, daughter Carolyn Cross Tynan (Tom) of Augusta, Ga., six grandchildren Patrick Everett Tynan (Christine), Christopher Cross Tynan, Kathleen Lee Tynan, Danielle Elaine Cross, Thomas Christopher Cross II, and Elise Marie Cross, and one great-grandson, Everett Thomas Tynan.
There will be a funeral service for Elaine on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2022, at 12 pm at St. James Santee Chapel of Ease Church in McClellanville, S.C.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Benedict Catholic Church 950 Darrell Creek Trail, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466 and Immaculate Conception Catholic Church 208 7th Avenue West Hendersonville NC 28731, or to a charity of your choice.
Condolences to your family. Be safe.