Attalla City Councilman Robert George “Bob” Cross III, a longtime public servant, retired firefighter and church leader, died March 5, 2026. He was 70.
Cross served on the Attalla City Council representing District 5 since 2004 and remained in office until his death, dedicating more than two decades to city government and more than three decades to public safety.
Born July 25, 1955, in Gadsden to Robert George Cross Jr. and Margaret Ann Cross, Cross graduated from Gadsden High School in 1973 and soon began a career focused on serving others. He became the first licensed paramedic in Etowah County before pursuing his lifelong goal of becoming a firefighter.
Cross served with the Guntersville and Attalla fire departments before joining the Gadsden Fire Department, where he spent 38 years. During his career there, he rose through the ranks from firefighter to assistant chief and earned the respect of colleagues across the region.
In 2004, Cross was elected to the Attalla City Council. During his tenure, he worked with multiple city administrations and fellow council members on projects aimed at improving the community. One accomplishment he was especially proud of was helping establish Attalla Fire Station No. 2.
Outside of city government, Cross was active in his church, First Baptist Church Attalla, where he served as a deacon for more than 40 years.
Attalla Mayor Larry Means said Cross’ impact on the city and those who knew him will be lasting.
“On Thursday, March 5, I bid farewell to a true close friend, Bob Cross, whose legacy will continue to inspire us,” Means said in a statement. “The City of Attalla mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant who devoted years to its service. Bob Cross, may you rest in peace, and may your memory inspire us to live with purpose. You will be deeply missed.”
Cross was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Judy Cross Whorton; and several extended family members.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Debra Cross; daughters Amy (Sam) Duffey and Stacy (Bryant) Moore; and grandchildren Livy Duffey, Harris Moore and Julia Moore.
Visitation was scheduled for Wednesday, March 11, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at First Baptist Church Attalla. A celebration of life service was planned for Thursday, March 12, at 2 p.m. at the church, with burial to follow at Rainbow Memorial Gardens.
Memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church Attalla.
