Mr. Michael R. Cross

***A WALK-THROUGH VISITATION CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF MR. MICHAEL RAY CROSS WILL BE HELD MONDAY, APRIL 6, 2026, AT OUR FUNERAL HOME. FOLLOWING THE VISITATION THERE WILL BE A COMMITTAL WITH HONOR GUARD AT THE FT. CUSTER NATIONAL CEMETERY IN AUGUSTA, MICHIGAN. PLEASE SEE SERVICE TIMES LISTED BELOW NOTE: MASKS ARE OPTIONAL AT THE CHURCH AND HAND SANITIZER WHEN WILL BE PROVIDED. ______________________________________ The Obituary Michael Ray Cross, our beloved Brother, Father and Friend, completed his earthly journey on March 15, 2026, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, following a brief illness. He was born on February 5, 1951, the third of ten children, to his loving parents Betty Lou McGregory and Frank Ivory Cross Sr. Michael was introduced to the Christian faith at an early age while attending New Bethel Baptist Church in Benton Harbor, Michigan, under the pastoral leadership of Rev. Mitchel H. Raspberry. He graduated from Michigan City High School in 1969. Shortly thereafter, Michael enlisted in the United States Army, where he proudly served his country during the Vietnam War and later received an Honorable Discharge. After returning home, Michael worked at Betty's Dry Cleaning, the family business. He was a hardworking entrepreneur and a devoted family man before relocating to Kalamazoo, Michigan. Affectionately known as "DJ Sir Silky Smooth", Michael had a deep love for music. He brought joy to many by DJing at family reunions and special gatherings, always getting everyone on their feet and dancing. His love for family and friends was unmatched--he would do anything for those he cared about. He was preceded in death by his father, Frank Ivory Cross Sr.; his mother, Betty Shurn; his stepfather, Oscar Travis Cole; his sister, Renee Cross; his brother, Frank Ivory Cross Jr.; and his sister, Betty Ventress. They are all dearly missed. Michael leaves to cherish his memory: his loving daughter, Tarry Blackmore of South Bend, Indiana; his son, Prince Cross of Kalamazoo, Michigan; 15 granddaughters; 13 grandsons; 7 great-grandchildren, along with one godson, Tyrone Hill of Kalamazoo, Michigan. He is also survived by his siblings, Malvin Cross of Benton Harbor, Michigan, Coy Curry of Lansing, Michigan; Owen Cole of Phoenix, Arizona; Everett Cole (Audra) of Anaheim, California and Preston Cole (Laura) of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Mr. Michael R. Cross

February 5, 1951 - March 15, 2026