Donna Leonard Cross' Obituary
Donna Leonard Cross, born January 27, 1943, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026. A longtime resident of Lakeland, Florida, Donna leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication to family and community.
Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Donna graduated from North Miami High School on May 18, 1961. Just one month later, on June 18, 1961, she married the love of her life, Pete Cross, with whom she shared many cherished years until his passing. Donna moved to the Lakeland area shortly thereafter and made it her home for the past 50 years.
Donna devoted much of her professional life to education, retiring from Kathleen High School in May of 2010. Even after retirement, her commitment to students never wavered, as she continued assisting graduating students with scholarships for college—an enduring reflection of her generous spirit and belief in the power of education.
She was a faithful attendee of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Lakeland and found joy in many interests, including traveling, spending time at the beach, cooking, and creating and painting ceramics in her garage. One of her greatest joys was time spent with her beloved grandson, affectionately known as her “tater.” She was also a passionate Florida State Seminoles fan, faithfully cheering them on every Saturday.
Donna is survived by her daughter, Nicole Temples; her son-in-law, Danny Temples; her grandson, Anthony Temples; and her sisters, Jo Anne Larrick and Mary Lynn Paquin. She was preceded in death by her husband, Pete Cross, and her sister, Bettye Hill.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 2:00-6:00 PM at the Winter Haven Moose Lodge.
Donna Leonard Cross will be remembered for her warmth, creativity, devotion to family, and lifelong commitment to helping others succeed. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
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