Carla Hess Cross

Carla Mabel Cross passed away peacefully in Phoenix, Arizona on March 27, 2025. She was born on Feb 1, 1941, in Alturas, California, the third child to Derril and Minerva (Scott) Hess.

Carla attended Modoc Union High School, where she participated in various activities including captain of the Majorettes Team, Homecoming Queen, and an honors student. She went on to attend Chico State College on a scholarship, then earned an Elementary Education Degree from Arizona State University.

Carla married Edward Klamm and together they had their son Jeffrey Brent and daughter Kelly Anne. In 1972, Carla then married Jay Cross, who had two daughters Jill Ann and Victoria Lynn.

Carla and Jay lived a robust life. Her life was centered around family, friends, community, her career and faith in The Lord. Carla’s career was with PacBell as a Communications Manager for over 25 years. After retiring, she then continued consulting for a few more years. Carla was a member of the Mensa Community, Republican Women, and Stonecroft Ministries. She also loved participating in the Porsche Club with her husband, Jay; as well as traveling with her friends and family. She was known for her bright colored fingernails and her love for the colors purple and teal. Carla enjoyed many craft activities throughout her life including stained glass, oil painting, sewing and machine quilting.

Carla was a member of the Mariner’s Discovery Church in Discovery Bay, California. She was very active and served in various areas and loved her church family.

Preceded in death by her husband (2017) and parents, Carla is survived by her two children, Jeffrey (Esther) and Kelly; two stepdaughters Jill and Victoria; 4 grandchildren Bethany (Gage), Joshua (Carissa), Nicolas, Kristianna; 5 siblings: Ernie Hess (Marilyn), Diana Jones (Paul), Allen Hess (Sandra), Janice Bishop (Charles) and Kathy Ward (Lee); and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Carla’s kindness and love for her family and friends will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her family would like to thank the caring staff at The Retreat at Alameda Memory Care and Hospice of Arizona.