Funeral Services Set for VA District Chief Found Dead in Station

Jan. 27, 2023
Fortsmouth Volunteer Fire and Rescue District Chief Homer Larry Cross, 74, died Jan. 23.

A fire chief was found unresponsive in the Fortsmouth Volunteer Fire and Rescue station earlier this week.

District Chief Chief Homer Larry Cross, 74, was pronounced dead in the station Jan. 23 after resuscitative efforts by fellow firefighters failed, according to The River.

The Warren County Sheriff's Office and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of Virginia are investigating. 

“District Fire Chief Homer Cross was an inspiration for our Department and a fixture on almost every fire ground. He was a dedicated fire officer but, above all else, a great friend whose legacy will certainly live on through the care and compassion he instilled in the next generation of our Fire Department, Warren County Fire Chief James Bonzano told The Royal Examiner. 

Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30 at Maddox Funeral Home at 105 W. Main Street, Front Royal, VA.

Funeral service with military and fire honors will be held at noon Tuesday, Jan. 31 at Riverton United Methodist Church at 55 E. Strasburg Road, Front Royal, VA.

A procession from the church to Panorama Memorial Gardens will be conducted, where final respects will be paid.

The Cross Family will receive guests following the service at the Front Royal Volunteer Fire Station at 221 N. Commerce Avenue, Front Royal, VA.

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