Joan Marilyn Ross' Obituary
Joan Marilyn Ross, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home under the care of Cleveland Clinic Hospice on Monday, September 2, 2024. She was 86 years old.
Born on October 8, 1937, in Pontiac, Michigan, to George and Wave (née Kelly) Richards, Joan grew up in a loving family alongside her brothers, Charles "Chuck" Richards and Jack Richards. She graduated from Pontiac High School in 1956, marking the beginning of a life filled with love, dedication, and service.
Joan held various jobs throughout her life, but her true calling was as the school secretary at Durling Elementary School, where she made a lasting impact on the lives of countless students and staff members. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support for the school community were deeply felt by all who knew her.
Joan was the devoted wife of Wayne D. Ross, with whom she shared 57 years of marriage. Her love and support for Wayne, especially during his years coaching football and furthering his education, were a testament to her dedication. Joan embraced the role of a second mother to the many young men who played football and ran track for Wayne, offering them guidance, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
In addition to her work and family life, Joan was an active and passionate member of the Clearview High School community. She served on the Clearview School Board, Lorain County JVS School Board, and Lorain County School Board, demonstrating her commitment to education and her community.
Joan found joy in many activities, including boating, traveling the world, and spending cherished time with her family and friends. Her greatest pride and joy were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, with whom she shared many happy moments.
Joan is survived by her loving husband, Wayne; her daughter, Lisa J. (Jeff) Zimmerman of Delaware, OH; her grandchildren, Nathan (Jessica) Ross of Lorain, Ashley (Russell) Hamner of Vermilion, Adam Ross of Ashland, Nicholas (Chasity) Zimmerman of Delaware, OH, Daniel Zimmerman of Dayton, and Ryan Zimmerman of Delaware, OH; and her great-grandchildren, Olivia Romes, Kaiden Hamner, Karaline Hamner, Kellen Zimmerman, Nolan Zimmerman, and Addyson Ross.
She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Jeffrey C. Ross, her parents, George and Wave Richards, and her brothers, Charles "Chuck" Richards and Jack Richards.
Family and friends will be received on Friday, September 6, 2024, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral & Cremation Center, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Road, Amherst. And also on Saturday, September 7, 2024 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service at 10:30 a.m. in the funeral center. Interment will follow at Ridge Hill Memorial Park.
Joan's legacy of love, dedication, and community service will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.dovinreberjones.com.
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