John E. Ross' Obituary
John Edward Ross, 78, passed away Sunday (April 27, 2014) at his residence.
Services to celebrate John’s life will be 12:00 p.m. Saturday, May 3, 2014 at North Jasper Street Church of Christ with Bro. Mayo Towles officiating. Visitation will be Friday, May 2, 2014 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Graceland Fairlawn Funeral Home. Interment will be at Graceland Cemetery.
John was born June 27, 1935 in Henderson TN, the son of John and Ruth Howard-Ross. He moved to Decatur in 1954 and married Betty J. Ross, March 31, 1956.
John began working at Wagner Casting Company and retired from Staley General Transportation in 1994, after 26 years of service. After retirement John began volunteer work for senior citizens. His work led him to entrepreneurship of his own business, Helping Hands Lawn Care. John was a member of Jasper Street Church of Christ and served as a Deacon and Trustee. He is an honorary member of Emanon Club. His favorite hobbies were cars and motorcycles. John will be remembered for his unconditional love for family and friends.
Cherishing his memories are his Children: Theresa (Robert) Smith of Decatur IL, Dwight (Barbara) Ross of Decatur IL, Gary (Annette) Ross of Decatur, Il, Beverly (Dr. Terry) Taylor of Davenport IA. Sisters: Dr. Laura (Ben) Bond, Waukegan, IL, June McCloud, Jackson MI, Evelyn (Joe) Voltz, Akron, OH. Brothers: MacArthur (Gladys) Shields, Decatur, IL, Horace Shields, Jacksonville, IL. Step parents Eugene and Mary Shields, Summerville TN. Ten Grandchildren and seven Great Grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and very good friends.
John was preceded in death by his parents; his wife and love of his life, Betty J. Ross, his sisters, Lois Lockett and Mattie Haynes and three sister-in laws.
The family wishes to acknowledge special Thank You to D.J. and St Mary’s Hospital Staff.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?