[Uninformed, uneducated speculation=ON]
Given that the main problem in strong crosswinds on landing would be gusts, I agree that having the majority of lift close to the CofG is probably preferable. The main factor, of course, would be whether a gust will lift a wing beyond the capability of aileron to bring it back down again. In a dihedral aircraft like a PA28 this is going to be more of a problem than a plank such as the C152's wing.
I'm not sure whether the lower wing of a PA28 would also cause further problems with more pronounced ground effect than with a high-wing type.
Where that puts us on the question of flaps extended or clean wing for a crosswind landing I have no idea. I can see merit in both sides of the argument - but I'm not an aerodynamicist.
[Uninformed, uneducated speculation=OFF]