DAHLGREN – James David Cross, 47, of Dahlgren, died Feb. 1, 2026, in Belle Rive.

He was born July 2, 1978, in Sycamore to David and Debbie (Clark) Cross. He worked in the oil fields for several years and had also worked as a coal miner and as a contractor in the construction industry.

Cross was known as a go-getter and for his willingness to help others, often putting others before himself. He was described as a good person who tried to help everyone he could. He was a man of faith and enjoyed the outdoors. He liked riding motorcycles and watching sunsets. Music was important to him, and he enjoyed playing the guitar and harmonica.

Survivors include his mother, Debbie Cross of Dahlgren; a sister, Tonya Cross and significant other Kaleb Braden of Dahlgren; two sons, Cody Barnett and significant other Kendra Brown of Thackeray and Trenton Cross (Kaylee) of Thackeray; three grandchildren: Lane, Creo and Chloe Barnett, all of Thackeray; a grandmother, Brenda Clark of Arkansas; a niece, Destiny Braden of Dahlgren; and a nephew, Jacob Braden of Dahlgren.

He was preceded in death by his father; grandparents, Wayne and Estelle Cross; and grandfather, Cecil Clark.

Funeral services will be held at noon Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, at Gholson Funeral Home in Dahlgren, with the Rev. Mark Tate officiating. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the time of service Thursday at the funeral home. In accordance with his wishes, he will be cremated, and a celebration of life with burial of ashes will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gholson Funeral Home to assist with final expenses.

Online condolences may be shared at gholsonfuneralhome.com.