Kim Marie Cross, 68, passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 26, 2026, closing a life marked by resilience, compassion, and a gentle spirit that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Born in Durham, North Carolina, Kim was the first child of a young seminary student and his wife — the firstborn of what would become a family of two boys and two girls. Her earliest days were rooted in faith, attending Sunday school, Bible School, and MYF youth groups.

Kim’s childhood unfolded across South Carolina as her father’s ministry carried the family through Kingstree, Blacksburg, York, Lancaster, Greer, Spartanburg, and Rock Hill. With each move came new schools, new friends, and new beginnings. She was a shy child who lacked confidence, although she adapted as best she could, gaining her footing in unfamiliar places, keeping a small circle of friends she trusted.

After high school, Kim attended Spartanburg Methodist College before transferring to Wofford, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology — a reflection of her lifelong interest in people, their stories, and the ways they connect. She later continued her education at York Technical College, studying accounting and expanding her skills with finance.

Kim worked as a sales clerk at Belk Department Stores in Spartanburg and Charlotte, and later at The Record Cellar at the Galleria Mall in Rock Hill. She also worked for a bank for a year or two, but learned her passion wasn’t finance. She loved music — especially the sounds of the ’60s and ’70s — and being surrounded by albums and customers suited her warm, conversational nature. Even as she faced significant hip problems and personal struggles, Kim met each challenge with quiet perseverance.

She remained single and lived with her parents through their retirement years. After her mother’s passing, life became more difficult, yet Kim stepped into the role of caretaker for her father during his battle with prostate cancer. Losing both parents was a profound heartbreak, but with the support of her siblings and extended family, Kim slowly found her independence. She worked hard to regain her footing, even through setbacks, and her determination became one of the most defining parts of her story.

Everything changed when she found her place at Target in Rock Hill. What began as a job became her true sense of purpose. In the nurturing love of coworkers who became friends — and eventually her work family — Kim blossomed. She felt a belonging she had never known before. Her coworkers brought out the best in her, and she, in turn, brought out the best in others.

Kim ministered to customers with the same gentle spirit she had grown up around. Her upbeat attitude, her compassion, and her ability to make people feel seen led some customers to surprise her with gifts — small tokens of appreciation for the kindness she offered so naturally. Her Target family became her support network, her joy, and her daily reminder that she mattered deeply.

Kim loved her dog, Sophie — her “bestie” — and though she eventually had to relinquish her to another’s care due to housing restrictions, Sophie remained one of the great loves of her life. Kim cherished movies, reading, long conversations, and spending holidays with her nieces and nephews. A December baby, she adored Christmas and held a deep nostalgia for childhood memories, family traditions, and the simple joys that made her heart feel full.

She will be remembered for her compassion, her humor, her tenderness, and her gift for encouraging others. Kim’s life was not always easy, but she met every season with courage and a heart that kept choosing love. Those who knew her will carry forward the warmth she shared, the laughter she sparked, and the quiet strength she embodied. Her story is one of perseverance, grace, and the enduring power of kindness — a legacy that will continue to shine in the lives she touched.

Please wear red to Kim’s celebration of life to honor all the lives she touched while working at Target. 

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