Rita May (Luce) Ross

Rita May Ross, 83, joined the choir of saints on July 21st, 2025, peacefully at her home in Parkman.

Born on July 8, 1942, in Johnson City, New York, Rita was an accomplished musician, showcasing her talent as a violinist at New York Philharmonic Young Peoples concerts, in churches and at home, especially for rounds of Christmas carols.  She used her vocals to praise God through worship as soloist and choir member.

Her love and devotion for the Lord was demonstrated in her passion for children as a Sunday school teacher, AWANA leader and volunteer aide at Cardinal Intermediate School.

She had a deep love for animals and enjoyed attending dog and horse shows. She was a devoted member of Huntsburg Baptist Church and an active leader of the church’s social committee. Above all, Rita cherished time spent with her family and friends and will be remembered for her unwavering faith.

Rita was known to carry a long conversation with anyone who would listen to a story or hear her proudly talk about her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her parents Orrin and Hazel (Hayes) Luce, her brother, Leo Charles Luce; and her sister, Anita LaFever. Rita married the love of her life, Ervin Ross, in 1962. Together, they raised five wonderful children. Ervin Ross Jr. (Sheila), Coleen (Mark) Marks, Todd (Lawni) Ross, Lanette (Curtis) Van Cleve, and Kristan (John) Mast; grandchildren: Cynthia (John) Messina, Timothy (Grace) Marks, Melissa Marks, Emma (Brandon) Bella, Erin (Jacob) Revak, Thomas Van Cleve, Austin Van Cleve, Drew Mast, Ian Mast, and Trent (Taylor) Mast; and great-grandchildren: Caleb, Matthew, Walker, and Lara Jean.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at Huntsburg Baptist Church, 16401 Mayfield Rd, Huntsburg, OH 44046. A funeral service will immediately follow at 11:00 AM, officiated by Pastor Todd Lozier.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to The American Heart Association, 5455 N. High Street, Columbus OH 43214 or Mooreland Rose Garden Memorial at Lakeland Community College. Please make check out to, The Lakeland Foundation and note Mooreland Rose Garden Memorial in the memo.  The Lakeland Foundation, 7700 Clocktower Drive, Kirtland, OH  44094.

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