Ricky Shelton Cross passed away on July 22, 2025, in Batson, Texas, at the age of 70. Born on December 15, 1954, in Kountze, Texas, Ricky led a life marked by devotion to family and a passion for the outdoors.
As a truck driver, Ricky was well-known not only for his profession but also for his vibrant personality and caring nature. He was a good guy, a family man who embodied loyalty and kindness. Those who knew him would often say that he had an uncanny ability to fix anything, earning him the affectionate title of "Mr. Fix It." His hobbies reflected his love for life and family; he had a deep affinity for gardening, BBQing, and cooking Sunday dinners that brought his family together around the table.
Ricky was proud to have been a cowboy, taking joy in tending to his cattle and horses on his land. His heart swelled with love for his grandchildren. They shared countless moments filled with laughter, whether during family gatherings, long fishing trips, or simply enjoying the outdoors together. His fondness for wrestling and his youthful days as a basketball player added to the tapestry of memories that defined his spirited persona.
He is survived by his devoted wife Vickie Cross and their beloved children — Luke Smith, Mikaela Conner, and her husband Zane, honorary son, Sam Lewis; grandchildren Payton Smith, Kayden Smith, Allison Smith, Sawyer Smith, Michael Barchus Conner, Astrid Conner, and Maci Grimes. Ricky also leaves behind his brother Cecil Tanner and sisters Carolynn Lewis and her husband Tommy, and Judy Hanks, along with his sister-in-law Linda Ashley, brothers-in-law Raymond Robinson and his wife Julie, Duane Robinson and his wife Angela as well as his in laws Lenard and Merl Robinson. The additional love from extended family members Audrey Robinson, Dannie Smith, and many cherished nieces and nephews—Kandi, Tara, Brandi and husband Eli, Arlyn, Jill, Dillon and his wife Kacy, Rebecca, Christopher, Trent, Blaze, Slade, Lana, Lisa and her husband Bill, Kaylee, Kelton and his wife Debra, Michael and his wife Kelly, Lacy, and Cody—will forever hold Ricky in their hearts.
Ricky was predeceased by his parents, Hiram Shelton Cross and Velma Doris Singletary Cross, and his brother, Claud "Buddy" Ashley. His legacy will endure through the love he fostered and the countless lives he touched throughout his journey.
A visitation will take place on July 27, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Faith & Family Funeral Services located at 40847 Texas 105, Batson, Texas. The funeral service will commence at 2:00 PM on July 28, 2025, at the same location, officiated by Pastor Tolbert Hudspeth and Pastor Kevin Howard. Interment to follow at Guedry Cemetery.
Ricky Shelton Cross was a true embodiment of love and dedication, and his spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.