Ruth G. Ross

Ruth Geraldine (Mortimer) Ross, age 94, lived with eternity in her heart and entered her heavenly home triumphant on Saturday May 24, 2025 while residing at Brookdale Latrobe Senior Center. As evidenced by the many notes in her Bible, it is clear that Ruth’s faith was grounded in Jesus.

Ruth was born the third of seven children to Harold and Nellie (Walter) Mortimer in Clarion County, PA on January 21, 1931.  She was a "coal miner's daughter" and a "preacher's kid". Ruth was a graduate of Shippenville High School. 

In her early years she worked as a food server in Oil City at the Arlington Hotel, Famoore's Family Restaurant, and Isaly's Restaurant where she met her future husband. Ruth married Harry G. Ross, Jr. on November 24, 1951. Ruth later became the manager of the Tri-City Lenders Exchange, while raising her four children.

Ruth was never happier than when holding a baby in her arms, including when serving at the Nazarene Church nursery and caring for neighbors’ children. She also loved the flower gardens she and Harry cultivated and is especially remembered for sharing cuttings with neighbors and friends. Ruth was a devoted birdwatcher, always keeping feeders full for chickadees, cardinals and hummingbirds.

Ruth was preceded to glory by her husband of 53 years, Harry G. Ross, Jr., her parents, 5 siblings and her beloved son, Michael L. Ross. She is survived by three children Linda Ross (James Timm) of Kilmarnock VA, David (Cherryn) Ross of Matlacha FL, and Sharon (Robert) Lanz of Ligonier PA, as well as her treasured daughter-in-law Patricia Ross of Girard. She is also survived by her brother Roger Mortimer of West Valley NY and her sister-in-law Bonnie Ross of Butler PA, as well as numerous beloved nieces and nephews. Ruth leaves behind 6 dearly loved grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. 

Ruth’s family wishes to thank the friends and caregivers at the “Stone School” in Erie who blessed her life for 7 years; the amazing Brookdale Latrobe family who cared for her and loved on her for the past two years; the workers at Bridges Hospice who helped make her transition a comfortable one; and all her friends and extended family who contributed to her very blessed life over her 94 years.

A memorial service for the family will be held at Phipp’s Cemetery (Knox) the morning of June 21, immediately followed by a celebration of her life at Hoss’s Steak and Sea House in Seneca from 11:00 to 1:00. All are welcome to join the family to share precious memories. Ruth tithed generously to numerous causes over the years, especially favoring the Women’s Care Center of Erie County. We would be honored If you wish to send a memorial gift in her name to a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made to www.mccabefuneralhomespa.com.