FRANKLIN—Deacon Napolean “Needie” Cross of Beale Road, Franklin, Va., went to be with his Lord and Savior on March 5, 2011, while surrounded by his loving family.

The Southampton County native was the son of Willie P. and Victoria Cross.

Deacon Cross was Senior Deacon of Rose of Sharon Worship Center.

He was a lifetime farmer, bus driver of 50 years and custodian for Southampton County Public School System for 38 years.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting and playing baseball with his children and grandchildren.

Deacon Cross was preceded in death by his parents and son, Melvin.

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife of 67 years, Annie “Lizzie;” two daughters, Jean and Mirinda (Tony); six sons, James (Shirley), Nathan (Vanessa), Ricky, Napolean Jr. (Bonita), Brenton (Anita) and Reginald; 34 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 10, 2011, at El Bethel Worship Center, 4324 Holland Road, Suffolk, Va., with the pastor, Bishop Richard Cross Jr., delivering the message of comfort. The committal and benediction will be in Rose of Sharon Cemetery.

A traditional service with dignity will be conducted by William M. Johnson and Sons Funeral Home, 224 S. Main St., Franklin, Va. Please share your condolences with the family at www.wmjohnsonandsons.com.