Catherine Lee Richardson Cross '74

Catherine Lee Richardson Cross, 69, of Naples, ME passed away surrounded by her family on January 4th, 2026, after a battle with Alzheimer’s.

Cathy was born on July 22nd, 1959 to Harold Richardson and Pauline (Graves) Benson and raised in Fryeburg, ME. After graduating from Fryeburg Academy in 1974, she went on to marry the love of her life.

On August 30, 1974, Cathy married Gene Cross in a ceremony at The Bridgton Methodist Church and began building their life together. Cathy then started dedicating her life to being a wonderful and loving mother to her 3 children, Lisa, Cory, and Matthew. Later adding a foster daughter, Shannon.

Cathy lived her life dedicated not only to her own children and grandchildren but also to many others. Through the years she was involved in Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Royal Rangers. She also built a 20-plus-year career at Windham Christian Academy, teaching children in many capacities.

She spent many years volunteering with the Harrison Lions Club and the Bridgton Food Pantry.

She spent many years bookkeeping for Gene’s business, Gene’s Discount Sales.

When Cathy wasn’t filling her home with warmth and kindness, she could be found taking care of her flowers, crafting, baking, knitting, crocheting, and reading.

Cathy was predeceased by her parents, Harold Richardson and Pauline Graves Benson; her sister, Carlene Richardson, and her son, Cory Cross. She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Gene Cross of Naples; her siblings Warren Richardson of Fryeburg, Linda Stubbs of Patten, Jolene Paige of Naples, Wade Richardson of Brownfield and Teresa Benson of Brownfield; her children Lisa Cross Martin and her husband, Chris, of Stow, Matthew Cross of Naples and foster daughter, Shannon Desautel of Casco; 3 grandchildren Caitlyn Cross, Christian Martin and Olivia Martin, as well as 4 foster grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren, Mya, Castiel, and Harbor.

Cathy touched the lives of many. Her selflessness, warmth, and generous spirit will be remembered forever. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion that lives on in all of us.

Services to honor Cathy will be held at a later date in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Andwell Health Services in Cathy’s name. Andwell Health Partners, ATTN: Development Office,15 Strawberry Avenue, Lewiston, Maine 04240

Condolences and tributes may be shared at www.hallfuneralhome.net.