Edson D. Cross

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Edson Dwayne Cross, who left us peacefully on September 10, 2024, at the Home Health and Hospice Center in Merrimack. Born on February 16, 1930, in Littleton, New Hampshire, Edson moved to Nashua at the age of 10, where he built a life filled with dedication, service, and creativity.

Edson proudly served his country as a member of both the Navy and the Air Force Reserves, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. From 1948 to 1968, he was a Radio Operations Section Supervisor and Trainer, contributing significantly to his field. His career continued as a Telecommunications Specialist with Bell Telephone, later renamed New England Telephone Company, where he worked for over 37 years before retiring in 1992.

A talented musician and singer, Edson, the bass player, was the heart and soul of the musical group "The Jem Trio," which he formed with his beloved wife, Mary Jane, singer and pianist, and drummers Moe Fornier and later Ronnie Plourde. The group, which was later renamed "The Crosswinds," became a cherished fixture at the Keyboard Lounge in Bedford, where they performed more than 900 times over a decade and were a preferred choice for wedding venues for over 20 years.

Edson's love for his country and military service had a profound influence on his children and grandchildren, as evident by his son Stephen's 21-year career in the Air Force, and his grandson Daniel Cross, who is currently serving in the Army National Guard and is actively deployed in Iraq. This enduring legacy of service to the nation remains a source of pride for his family.

In addition to his love for music, Edson was also a licensed Cessna pilot. He delighted in taking family and friends on scenic flights all over New England, including memorable trips to Martha’s Vineyard, sharing his passion for flying with those he loved.

Edson’s legacy is also marked by his passion for bringing people together as one of the founders of the hunting camp, Lumbago Acres, in Whitefield, NH. For more than 66 years, this special place has fostered cherished memories for family and friends.

He is survived by his children, Norman Cross of Lyndeborough, Debra Cross of Morganton, NC, David and Lynn Marie Cross of Jaffrey, and Stephen Cross of Nashua. He was predeceased by his wife, Mary Jane, his son Brian Cross, his mother Marion Oullette, and his father Norman Edson Cross. Edson also leaves behind 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Edson will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, his musical talents, his love of flying, and his role as a loving father, grandfather, and friend. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A funeral mass will be held at Saint Christopher's Church in Nashua at 10 AM on Thursday, September 19, 2024, with interment to follow at Edgewood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Saint Christopher's Church, the Home Health and Hospice Center in Merrimack, or a charity of one’s choice in Edson's memory.