Kaitlyn Louise Cross

Kaitlyn Louise Cross, age 17, of Traer, Iowa, passed away on October 1, 2025. Born on April 28, 2008, at MercyOne in Waterloo, Iowa, she was the cherished daughter of Jeff and Reianna Cross.

Kaitlyn’s vibrant spirit shined brightly throughout her life. She embraced many passions, including shopping, gaming, and traveling with her mother. Their bond grew even deeper when Kaitlyn began homeschooling, becoming inseparable as they shared in life's daily joys and challenges. Kaitlyn possessed a remarkable talent for art, creating beauty that expressed her unique perspective of the world around her.

In May 2025, shortly after celebrating her 17th birthday, Kaitlyn faced a daunting diagnosis of an aggressive form of leukemia. Her strength was evident during the 72 days spent in the hospital, where she endured painful treatments, always surrounded by the unwavering support of her mother, who remained her steadfast rock. Kaitlyn made a courageous decision to spend her final days at home rather than in a hospice facility, yearning to be surrounded by the comfort of family and her beloved best friend, Harley, her affectionate cat.

Kaitlyn's homecoming was filled with love and memories as she celebrated precious moments with her family. Over the next eight weeks, she joyfully commemorated milestones such as graduations, birthdays, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Her adventurous spirit led her to an unforgettable trip to the zoo and joyful sleepovers with her cousins. A highlight of her journey was attending a concert featuring her favorite bands—Three Days Grace, and Breaking Benjamin—where she was thrilled to receive VIP passes that made her exclaim, “This is the best night I’ve ever had”, from Iowa River Hospice.

Sadly, following this cherished time with her loved ones, Kaitlyn’s health rapidly declined, and she passed away peacefully in her mother’s arms at Iowa River Hospice in Marshalltown, IA.

Kaitlyn is preceded in death by her beloved Nana and Papa Azbill. She leaves behind her devoted parents, Jeff and Reianna Cross of Traer, Iowa; two brothers, Ethan (Aubrey) Azbill of Traer, Iowa, and Bryton Cross of Burlington, Iowa; two nephews, Liam and Rowan Azbill, with another on the way; Aunts and Uncles, Mel (Chris) Grimm of Traer, Iowa and Jon (Courtney) Azbill of Dysart, Iowa; cousins Stacey, Trinity (Cassidy), Cameron, Kale, Chance, Aliyah, Faye, Octavia, and Hazel; and her cherished companion, Harley.

Services in honor of Kaitlyn will take place on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Parrott & Wood Chapel of Memories in Waterloo, Iowa. Family will greet guests from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM, followed by a funeral service beginning at 1:00 PM. Kaitlyn will be laid to rest at Buckingham Cemetery in Traer, Iowa.

Kaitlyn’s beautiful spirit and profound love for life will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.