Leon W. Cross, 73

SEAFORD - Leon W. Cross, of Seaford, died peacefully with his family at his side at Coastal Hospice At The Lake in Salisbury, Md., on Tuesday, April 21, 2009. He was 73. He was born and raised in Bridgeville, son of the late Vincent and Elizabeth (Wallace) Cross. Leon graduated from Bridgeville High School, served in the Strategic Air Command of the U.S. Air Force and retired from the E.I duPont Company in 1985. He was a member of the Centenary United Methodist Church. His life centered around his family, hunting, playing and watching sports. Leon is survived by his wife of almost 40 years, Mary "Dee" (Townsend) Cross; a daughter, Stacy Short and her husband Ryan of Wilmington; a son, Ryan Cross and his wife Ivy of Swarthmore, Pa.; and two grandchildren, Callie Short and Brenner Short. Other survivors include his sisters, Irene Zedney and her husband Glen, and Linda Reid and her husband Robert; and brother-in-law, Donald Kemp; as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Louise Kemp. A memorial service was held Friday, April 24, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Hardesty Chapel, 202 Laws Street, Bridgeville. Interment in Bridgeville Cemetery will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Centenary United Methodist Church, 200 West Market Street, Laurel, DE 19956; or to the American Heart Association, 1151 Walker Road, Suite 202, Dover, DE 19901. Letters of condolence may be sent via www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.