Susan (Kline) Cross

Susan Kline Cross, age 89 of Fairborn passed away peacefully at Riverside Methodist Hospital, Columbus on Tuesday March 10, 2020.  She was born May 14, 1930 in Glen Falls, NY, the daughter of the late Philip Ward and Marion (Cox) Kline.  

Susan moved to Fairborn just before starting high school.  She graduated from Fairborn High School and then earned a bachelor’s degree in Social Work in 1951 from The Ohio State University, where she was a member of the Alpha Phi Sorority.  She spent the vast majority of her life (over 70 years) as a proud resident of Fairborn and recently resided at Lincoln Park Retirement community in Kettering and Wesley Glen Retirement community in Columbus.  

Susan’s passions in life were family, friends, the Ohio State Buckeyes and children.  She was a positive force in her family and community.  She lived an active and happy life.  Her love of children was exemplified by her co-ownership and founding of Kinderhaus in Fairborn, where she worked for nearly 20 years.

Susan was very engaged with Fairborn United Methodist Church and the Fairborn school community.  Both were the source of many deep friendships that she maintained for decades and from which she derived so much joy. Two of the most special “sisters” in her life were Mary Lou Sommer and Josie Fulton; they were indeed the sisters Susan never had.

Susan loved all things Buckeyes, especially the football team.  She and Howard were season ticket holders for over 50 years, rarely missed a home game and took numerous road trips as well.  She was also an avid Wright State basketball and Cincinnati Reds fan.

Most of Susan’s heart and energy was reserved for her family, who tried to return all the love they got from her.  She leaves nothing but wonderful memories and important life lessons. Her smile, wit, generosity and love won’t ever be forgotten.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, S. Howard Cross; and a daughter, Kathryn Cross Devito.  Survivors include two sons, Jeff Cross (wife, Beth Harmount) of Columbus, John Cross of Long Beach, CA; son-in-law, Albert Devito of Pittsburgh; grandchildren Andrea Devito Mascari (husband, Tim), and AJ Devito (wife, Mandi), Kevin Cross and Ellen Cross; great-grandchildren, Isabella and Benjamin Mascari, and Luca Devito.

Due to ongoing concerns about public health and safety, Susan was laid to rest with a private family ceremony at Medway Cemetery.  A public memorial gathering and service will be planned at a later date. Thank you for understanding.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to The Ohio State University College of Social Work in memory of Susan Cross.  Donations can be made as follows:  Phone:  614-292-214;  Online: www.giveto.osu.edu;  Mail: check payable to The Ohio State University Foundation, 1480 West Lane Avenue, Columbus, OH  43221.  

Arrangements in care of Belton-Stroup Funeral Home, Fairborn.  

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