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William D. Ross Click for Condolences      Printable Version Not Listed - 2006 William D. Ross, founder of Ross Brothers Construction Co., passes William Douglas Ross, 89, of Ashland, died Sunday evening, Nov. 26, in Community Hospice Care Center in Ashland. Mr. Ross and his brother, Merrill Ross, founded Ross Brothers Construction Co., one of the area’s oldest and largest industrial construction operations, after they returned to their home from service in World War II. They and their company were instrumental in the growth and maintenance of many of Ashland’s industrial concerns and Ross Brothers continues to this day doing construction work at many of the area’s largest industrial plants. The Ross family goes back many generations in Ashland and Boyd County and Mr. Ross’ great-grandfather, John D. Ross, was the first judge in the state of Kentucky. William Ross served as a Boyd County commissioner from 1970 through 1978 and was an active leader in the Boyd County Democratic Party. Mr. Ross was a member of Grasslands United Methodist Church on Bear Creek, was a member of BPO Elks 350, the American Legion, the Masonic lodge and the Shriners. He was very active in charitable groups throughout Boyd County and was particularly supportive of the Ramey-Estep Homes. William D. Ross was the son of the late George Washington Ross and Marguerite Hensley Ross. He was preceded in death by his wife, Billie Sue Blankenship Ross. Mr. Ross is survived by two sons, Frank Ross and wife Queta of San Carlos, Mexico, and G. Stephen Ross and wife Pamela of Frederick, Md. He is also survived by two daughters, Melinda and husband U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall of Washington, D.C., and Bonnie Ross of Ashland. William Ross has a brother, Merrill Ross and his wife, Alice, of Ashland; and two sisters, Betty Lowell and her husband, Frank, of Ashland and Bonnie McLeod and husband Mac of Alexandria, Va. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Ernest Jack Ross and Charles Rupert Ross; and a sister, Mrs. Louis (Martha Francis) Kahne. Mr. Ross has three grandchildren, Zachary Douglas Ross of Ashland and Hunter and Hayley Ross, both of Aspen, Colo. Visitation will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at Steen Funeral Home-Central Avenue Chapel in Ashland. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home by the Rev. Lee Gussler. Burial will be in Bellefonte Memorial Gardens. Friends may make contributions to Community Hospice, 1538 Central Ave., Ashland, KY 41101. Online condolences may be made to steenfuneralhomes.com

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There are currently 5 condolences.

Jerry Vance Monday December 4, 2006 at 8:58 PM

To Bill's family: You probably don't remember me, but I was a close friend of Roger's a long time ago. While checking my father's condolence messages on this website, I was reminded that Bill had passed away. I was in Ashland last week attending the funeral of my father, Carl Vance, who passed away on Nov. 29. I used to spend a lot of time on Merrill and Alice's houseboat on the river and I recall the good times we spent on Bill's boat as well. He was always kind to me. My mother, Mary Lou Vance, worked at the courthouse when Bill was commissioner and she always spoke highly of him. He was a well- respected man in Ashland. Although I did not know Frank and Steve very well, I recall that they joined Roger, Greg, and me on a ski trip to Killington back in the 70's, a trip I will never forget. I know your pain and the Ross family was a big part of my life many years ago, so I just wanted to express to your family my sincere condolences for your loss and let you know that all of you are in my prayers. Please pass this on to Merrill and his family for me. Jerry Vance

Sharon Ross Cooper Thursday November 30, 2006 at 9:36 AM

Frank, Steve, and Bonnie- I was so saddened to hear of the passing of your father. The chikd hood memories came rushing back-the swimming pool in your back yard, the farm , the trampoline. And sadly, the time tht Steve locked us in the upstairs and told me that there was no way out. I have yet to recouperate from that one. What a great chikdhood we had! Whenever I think of your parents it always brings a smile to my face. I know that you miss them both. My prayers are with you as you grieve for the loss of Bill. The miles have separated us all but all of you have a special place in my heart. Love- Sharon

Vanessa White Wednesday November 29, 2006 at 8:27 AM

Bonnie, Best wishes to you and your family. We are all praying for you. Hope to see you soon.

Debbie Sprouse and Arlis Moore Tuesday November 28, 2006 at 2:57 PM

Bonny and family, Arlis and I are very saddened to hear of the death of your father. Arlis really loved him, and had a lot of good times with him. He is working out of town, and does not know if he will make it to the funeral. Please take care. Sincerely, Debbie Sprouse

Charles Bennett Tuesday November 28, 2006 at 10:20 AM

Our sincerest condolences go out to you at the loss of Bill Ross. He was a fine man and a leader in the community for years. He will be remembered fondly by all. Charlie and Kathy Bennett

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