Rice Hicks Cross, III (“Ric”), of Oak Ridge, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He spent most of his life in Oak Ridge, a community he deeply loved and faithfully served. Ric was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend. Above all, he found his true identity in Christ, a faith that shaped every aspect of his life. His love for the Lord was evident in his words, his leadership, and his steady, compassionate presence.

Professionally, Ric served the community as a computer systems programmer analyst, most recently with Strata-G on contract with United Cleanup Oak Ridge (UCOR). He approached his work with diligence, integrity, and a quiet excellence that earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

For the past five years, Ric faithfully served as the preaching minister of West Village Christian Church. He considered it a sacred privilege to shepherd and teach, always pointing others toward hope in Christ, emphasizing the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38). His messages were thoughtful and grounded in Scripture, delivered with humility and sincerity.

Ric is survived by his beloved wife, Holly; his daughter, Natalie Ward, her husband Clark, and their daughter Ivy; and his son, Daniel, his wife Natalie, and their daughter Hazel. He is also survived by his mother, Mary; his sisters, Kelly and Jane, and their families. He was preceded in death by his father, Rice Jr., and his sister, Nancy.

Ric will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his gentle strength, his thoughtful mind, and his unwavering love for his family. His life was marked not by self-promotion, but by faithful service — to his family, his church, his profession, and his Lord. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the church he shepherded, and the many lives he quietly influenced for eternity.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 21st from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at West Village Christian Church, with a processional and graveside service to follow.