John’s memory re-dedicated
Long-time Farragut Lions Club member Jim Hart presents the original dedication plaque in memory of John Cross to his widow, Dot Cross.
Cross, a charter member of the club, was posthumously honored with a plaque and bench dedication at Anchor Park in 1995.
However, 23 years of weathering recently encouraged members to have a re-dedication and unveiling of a new plaque.
Cross’ widow, Dot Cross; his son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Carolyn Cross; and daughter, Sue Bryant, were able to attend the May 8 ceremony, which also was commemorated by the Concord Brass band, playing an array of familiar tunes.
Many current and past Farragut Lions Club members also attended the event, as did several local dignitaries.
Farragut Lions Club president Gerri Crutchfield spoke briefly, noting Lions Club International marking 100 years of service in 2018.
“And we do it (now), because John was here to get this started (in Farragut),” she said.
Cross is listed in the Farragut Lions Club history as being one of 20 charter members who began the club, then named the Concord Lions Club, in 1974.
Cross was a native of Prudent, Tennessee, but had lived in the Knoxville/East Tennessee area since 1970. He and Dot also had another daughter, Karen, who currently lives in Chatham, Virginia, but was unable to attend the rededication.
Current and long-time Lions Club member John Hart recalled Cross, and said he remembered when many club members “all lived on Peterson Road” in Kingsgate subdivision.
“It was an honor to post the plaque in 1995, and it is an honor to do it now,” Hart said.
He then presented Dot Cross with the original plaque, and thanked the family for her husband’s service all those years ago.
The Rev. Steve Peek of First Baptist Concord performed the rededication, and said he had known John and Dot for many years through their faithful church attendance.
“First thing I remember about him, is that he was a quiet man, who operated mostly behind the scenes,” said Peek. “But he certainly made an impact on our church, and the community.
“It was certainly a joy to know John.”
Peek discussed John’s legacy through his association with the Lions.
“When people think about the Lions Club, they will think about John Cross,” he said. “I would like to know how many people have enjoyed this bench, that was placed by the Lions Club, so many years ago. I know that John would be delighted to know that something so simple as a bench would be his legacy.”
