James Eldon Ross, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away in Covington, Louisiana on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at the age of 88 after a prolonged illness.
James served his country with distinction and honor in the United States Coast Guard, attaining the rank of E9 Master Chief, the highest enlisted rank, and was awarded several citations for meritorious service, as well as earning the Coast Guard Cutterman’s Insignia, which recognizes dedication to duty, exceptional service and expertise of a professional mariner aboard cutters.
By his side during his 23-year military career was his wife, the former Shirley Shreve. Jim and Shirley met at Wayne City High School, and his passing happened four days after they celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary.
Their two sons, James “Mike” Ross and Mark E. Ross, grew up as Coast Guard “brats” and are proud of their father’s dedicated military service. After he retired from active duty, James Ross went on to have a long and successful career with the city of New Orleans.
Jim and Shirley Ross helped raise three more generations of Ross kids, including their grandchildren: James Michael, Jr, Jonathan, Hunter, Erin and Ian…and their beloved great-grandchildren, Emma and John Michael. As an avid golfer, “Pawpaw” taught all of the kids how to swing the club and hit “the little white ball”.
James E. Ross was a good, honest man…supported his family faithfully…always worked hard…served his country in uniform with honor…and leaves behind loving memories his family will cherish forever.
James Eldon Ross is survived by his wife, Shirley Ross, his sons James M Ross, Sr and Mark Edward Ross. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Edward Ross and Mary Francis Ross, his brother Harry Edward Ross and his grandson, Jonathan Tyler Ross.
A Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 3, 2025 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Archie Sanders Memorial Chapel in Wayne City, Illinois. A Funeral Service will begin at 2:00 pm. Interment will follow at Thomason Cemetery in Wayne City, Illinois.
Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information
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