After 25 years as a morning news reporter at KTAR, Jim Cross is retiring. Known for his reliable voice and thorough reporting, his final broadcast was on Friday, December 6, marking the end of an era for both him and his loyal listeners.

Having been in the radio business for about 45 years, Cross's experience is etched into the very fabric of the Arizonian soundscape, his contributions acknowledged by his induction into the Arizona Broadcast Association Hall of Fame, amid a career landscape where longevity in one place is a rarity, he maintained a steadfast presence at KTAR, with Cross himself acknowledging the exceptionality of his tenure, "twenty-five years in one place is almost unheard of in this day and age," as per his reflection in an Arizona Central report.

Throughout his reporting tenure, Cross delivered more than just news; he carried stories from the depths of tragedies, such as the Yarnell Hill Fire tragedy in 2013, which took the lives of 19 Granite Mountain Hotshots, to the victories of local sports teams, bringing Arizona’s paramount moments to the homes of many. "It was all worth it," Cross told ABC15, reflecting on his experiences that painted the extensive canvas of his career.

Cross is retiring to rest and spend more time with his family in Idaho. While he’s taking time off, he’s open to future opportunities but is focused on enjoying relaxation after years of early mornings and a busy schedule.