Carla Cross passed away peacefully in her sleep at 4:17 AM on April 12, 2026. A woman of deep devotion, she was a beloved mother and a pillar of the Helena community.

Born on September 11, 1944, in Norfolk, Virginia, Carla was the daughter of Fern and Olaf Nesja. She moved to Montana as a child and spent nearly her entire life there, building a home and a legacy in the Big Sky Country. On June 19, 1965, she married the love of her life, Joseph Cross. They shared a beautiful life together until his passing on October 16.

Carla was well-known through her long and meaningful career at Helena High School, where she was a steadfast presence for generations of students and staff. Her commitment to her work left an indelible mark on the school and the community she served so faithfully.

In her final days, Carla's true passion centered in her endless faith and belief in God, and her family: Keith and Tina Cross, and their two sons, Daniel and Christopher, and Kenneth and Kelly Cross. Her heart was stayed on her faith and the legacy of the family she and Joseph built together.

Preceded in Death by: Her husband, Joseph Cross; and her parents, Fern and Olaf Nesja.

Survived by: Her sons and their families, Keith and Tina Cross, Kenneth Cross, and Kelly Cross.

Grandchildren: Daniel and Christopher.