Willie Bill Cross, affectionately known as "Uncle Bill", was born May 16, 1939, to the late Johnnie B. Cross and Nancy Mitchell Cross, in Spartanburg, SC. He was educated in the Spartanburg County Schools. Willie was a machine operator at Kohler Company for fifteen years and retired from Spartan Terrace Apartments as maintenance supervisor for over thirty years.

Willie had an endearing love for God and was passionate about his relationship with his Savior. He loved his family immensely and was a jokester. His favorite quote was "Don't worry, just pray".

His favorite NFL team was the Carolina Panthers and he was partial to color blue. Willie was a member of the Mount Carmel Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death, along with his parents, by siblings, Nathanial "Nae Boy" Cross, Raymond Cross, Sr., Johnnie B. Cross, Jr., Buddy V. Cross, Jr., and Naomi Cross Oglesby.

Those who remain include sons, Willie E. (Porchia) Cross of Greenville, SC and James R. (Mattie) Cross of Greer; daughters, Carolyn Jeter and Desirae Jeter (Alexander) Watkins both of Columbia, SC and Joyce Cross of Greer, SC; grandchildren, Clarissa Cross, Ann Williams, Barbara Williams, Rod Williams, Antwon Cross, Duran Cross Breylln Cross, Barbara Hudson, Jerimiah Boston, Ephesians Boston, and Kila Cross; one great grandchild;  niece and caregiver, Donna Cross; nieces, Carolyn Oglesby, Dorothy M. Lindsay, and Kathleen Oglesby; special friend, Dobbie Williams, and a host of other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

On Monday, April 22, 2024, Willie transitioned at the Spartanburg Medical Center after an extended illness. His loving spirit will live on in the hearts and minds of his family and friends.