Darlene Elaine Cross

Darlene E. (Lovas) Cross, age 75, Niles, OH, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 30, 2026. She was born on September 12, 1950, to George and Betty Lovas of Mineral Ridge, Ohio.

Darlene graduated from Mineral Ridge High School in 1968 and, on May 22, 1970, married the love of her life, Richard Cross of Niles.  Together they raised two daughters, Melissa and Beverly, and built a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family. The many family vacations and trips to Daytona Bike Week will always remain among the greatest memories for her family.

In 1998, Darlene retired to dedicate herself to what became her greatest joy—being an extraordinary grandmother.  When she wasn’t spending time with her family, she could be found reading a good book, enjoying games on her iPad or Kindle, and smoking her cigarettes on the back porch, no matter the weather. 

Darlene was a fierce and protective mother to Melissa and Beverly, proud grandmother to Savanna, Matthew, Leianna and Cullen; always making them laugh when it came time to compare report cards. There was also a very special place in her heart for her granddaughter Arianna and great-grandsons Adrik and Enzo, though their lives were so very short; they were deeply loved by Grandma.

Darlene was a strong, determined woman who taught her daughters to stand up for themselves, be independent, and never let anyone take advantage of them.  She loved her family deeply, even when her ornery side stole the spotlight.  Those who knew her understood that behind her stubborn streak, sharp wit, and don’t-bother-me attitude was a loyal and devoted heart.  Her strength, humor, and devotion to her family will be remembered always. 

Besides her father, Darlene will be deeply missed by her husband, Richard; daughters, Melissa (James) Bendon, Beverly Cross Thomas; grandchildren, Savanna (Tyler) Tally, Matthew Cross, Leianna Thomas; great-grandchildren, Cullen Tally, Baby Girl Tally; siblings, Debbie, Diane, Vicki, and George "Skip".  Besides her mother, Darlene was also preceded in death by her granddaughter, Arianna Thomas, and great-grandsons, Adrik and Enzo Tally.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind and the love she gave so freely throughout her life, and we will never forget some of her last words, "Egy őrült  vagy."

Arrangements by Cremation & Funeral Service by Gary S Silvat Inc. Share memories and send condolences by visiting cremateohio.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Darlene Elaine Cross, please visit our floral store.