John Thomas Ross

     John Thomas Ross, 91, of De Kalb, passed away at his home in the early morning hours of Wednesday, November 20, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones.

     John Thomas was born to Josh Sanders and Geneva (Merrell) Ross on May 22, 1933, at their home in Kemper County. Being born during the Great Depression, he was brought up to be a hard worker, which he continued to do throughout his life until the decline of his health. His son, Bubba, recalls how his father worked two jobs most all of his life. He owned Ross Paint and Body Shop for many years in DeKalb, while also farming to provide for his family. 

     After closing the body shop, John Thomas began selling vegetables out of his truck, and would often be found at the Farmer’s Market in Singing Brakeman Park in Meridian, along with his partner, Karen. Since meeting over a $.50 box of popcorn in 2018 at an auction in Renfroe, he and Karen became inseparable. After John Thomas’ recent hospital stay, he was looking forward to he and Karen planting their garden again once he got better. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. 

     John Thomas is survived by his sons, John “Bubba” Sanders Ross (Pam) and Benjamin Josh Ross (Beth); his daughter, Margaret Jeann Howard (Wade); his beloved partner of seven years, Karen Fowler; a legacy of seven grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren; special friends, the McNeil Family; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

    He was preceded in death by his parents, Josh and Geneva Ross; sister, Mary Elizabeth Ross; brothers, Joseph Bryant Ross, Raymond N. Ross, and Walter Frank Ross; his first wife, Thelma Giles Ross; and his second wife, Lou Wilson Ross.

    Visitation for John Thomas will be held on Monday, November 25th, from 10-11:30 am at Center Ridge Baptist Church. The Funeral Service will begin at 11:30, with Bro. Tommy Kelly officiating the service. Burial will follow in the Center Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery.

     The staff of Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes-DeKalb is grateful for the opportunity to honor John Thomas’ life and memory and to serve his loving family during this time.