CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF DEACON JOHN F. ROSS, JR., First Deacon for St. John, Ozark, AL
Deacon John F. Ross, Jr
July 28 1942 - May 23, 2018
St. John Catholic Church celebrates the life of its first Deacon, John F. Ross, Jr. Throughout his entire life Deacon John was a “man of service.” He was born in Baltimore, Maryland and after graduating from high school, he served the military for 20 years in the United States Army and was Vietnam Veteran retiring from Fort Rucker. He continued to serve at Fort Rucker for an additional 20 years as a civil servant. He served as a loving husband, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His service to St. John Catholic Church began as an active member and later being ordained as deacon on June 23, 2002
Ordination June 23, 2002
His “fatherly” service extended to the youth within the parish as well as to those at the Easterling Correctional Facility in Clio, AL where he visited weekly. Deacon John regularly visited, supported, and prayed with the residents of the Boys’ Home and Diversion Center. He preached God’s word among all but, in a greater sense, lived that life that Jesus taught us among all he served. The parish is grateful for his service in helping to keep us a thriving community and will always remember his inspiring homilies and many inspirational stories.
The new Easter Fire is blessed by Fr. Paul Egbe, assisted by Deacon Ross.
St. John Parishioners join our God in saying, “'Well done, good and faithful servant!......Come and share your master's happiness!” (Matthew 25:21)
Deacon John F. Ross, Jr.
Father, Deacon, Friend, Servant
