Area Woman who Taught Elementary Students for 36 Years, Melissa Ann Cross, Passes Away at Age of 71
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on May 12, 2026
Melissa Ann Cross, 71, of Morgantown, West Virginia, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, on Friday, May 8, 2026, in Morgantown.
She was born on January 30, 1955, in Parkersburg, West Virginia, the beloved daughter of the late Lewis and Helen Vertner Kiger.
Melissa was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, caring sister, faithful teacher, and cherished friend whose life centered around
the people she loved most. Her family was her greatest blessing, and she poured her heart into every moment spent with them.
the people she loved most. Her family was her greatest blessing, and she poured her heart into every moment spent with them.
She is survived by her husband, Joe Cross; daughter, Alissa Smith and husband Dwayne; son, Adam Cross; sisters, Kathy Newberry and Susie Childers and husband Wayne; and her cherished grandchildren, Brody, Camdyn, and Eastyn Smith, and Cyrus and Jude Cross, who brought endless joy and pride to her life.
Melissa dedicated 36 years of her life to education, teaching first at West Union Grade School and later at Doddridge County Elementary School. She loved her students deeply and took great pride in helping shape the lives of countless children throughout her career. Her patience, kindness, and caring spirit made her a beloved teacher and mentor to many.
Melissa found happiness in life’s simple and meaningful moments. She loved reading, photography, and making memories with her family. Nothing brought her more joy than attending her grandchildren’s sporting events and activities, where she could always be found smiling proudly from the stands, encouraging them with unwavering love and support.
Her faith was an important part of her life. Melissa grew up attending West Union Baptist Church and later became a member of West Union Christian Church. In recent years, she attended Chestnut Ridge Church in Morgantown.
Those who knew Melissa will remember her gentle spirit, warm heart, and the kindness she freely shared with others. She had a quiet strength, a comforting presence, and a way of making those around her feel deeply loved. Though her family’s hearts are broken by her passing, they find comfort in the many beautiful memories she leaves behind.
Family and friends will be received at Davis Funeral Home – West Union, 212 Front Street, West Union, on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until time of service at 4:00 p.m. with Todd Godby and Richard McMillan officiating followed by visitation from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Melissa will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who had the blessing of knowing her.
Online condolences may be shared at www.davisfuneralhomewestunionwv.com.
Davis Funeral Home – West Union is honored to serve the Cross family.
