How does one express in words the deep feelings and sentiment of this remarkable lady Kitty Ross? Herein is an attempt by family members and friends. Kitty was 991/2 years young when she passed away on January 14, 2018. Kitty attended church services that morning and passed away in the afternoon. She had continued to live alone in her historic childhood home with a high degree of independence. She was always FUN to be with as Kitty’s quick wit always made you laugh. Her positive attitude of never complaining of any ailments nor speaking ill of anyone was uplifting and gratifying.
In her many years of living, Kitty possessed a wisdom of understanding people and the human spirit. She was a great listener who easily put forth encouraging words. A resounding echo by many was that “Kitty Ross was an inspiration” to all as to how best to live your life on this earth. Nephew Mac Graham shared that Kitty had courage within her as she moved on to be with Our Lord and Savior.
Born in Greenville, SC, Katherine “Kitty” Ellen Ross was a daughter of the late Dr. William A. and Mary Ellen Scott Ross. After forty years of service, she retired from Fork Shoals School and was a faithful member of Lickville Presbyterian Church. Kitty was a loyal supporter of Fork Shoals Historical Society and privately assisted community members in need. Amazingly, at her young age of 991/2, she continued to attend exercise classes at Group Hab in Simpsonville two mornings a week.
Kitty is survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Her Great Niece Lisa Chiasson Davidson posted that Kitty’s family celebrating her life traveled to SC from Florida, Virginia, New York, Michigan, and Georgia. Family was all important to Kitty always celebrating Christmas Eve dinner together with all family who could attend. Great Niece Lisa wrote, “Kitty was an amazing person with great faith. We will miss her. She loved us and we loved her.”
Kitty’s request that her funeral service not be somber but a JOYFUL one was fulfilled with uplifting hymns beautifully played by Woody Woods, Lickville Presbyterian Church musician and positive, encouraging message from Pastor Reverend Lindsey Graham.
Niece Ellen Cotton and family organized a simple, meaningful service. Nephew Mac Graham recalled childhood memories of the grand times visiting Aunt Kitty. Mac shared a family philosophy taught to Kitty by her father Dr. Ross and passed on to subsequent generations. This strong family belief was the importance of who you are as a person and how you represented your NAME. Your NAME is far more important than your wealth, riches, and material possessions.Fred Payne wrote, “Miss Kitty Ross was a wonderful lady. I loved to visit and hear her stories about patients coming to their home to seek Dr. Ross’ medical help.
Kitty’s childhood home served as a doctor’s office. Patients waited in one room and were seen in another room. It was a different world. May God help her family and friends cherish their memories.”
Cheryl Mac Knight added, “There must be a fantastic reunion going on in heaven today! We will all miss her ever so much. She HAS such a sweet soul. Truly a special lady!”
Virginia Dean expressed, “I am very saddened to read about Miss Kitty Ross’s illness and passing. I have many fond memories of my school days at Fork Shoals and our beloved Miss Kitty! She was certainly a Fork Shoals icon. The school, students, and community were fortunate and blessed because of her love and benevolence. Her politeness and positive attitude were most impressive and she will be greatly missed by all who knew her!”
Fork Shoals School Principal Kim Reid shared, “Miss Kitty was an amazing lady. She was such a blessing to know. I am so appreciative of her influence in our community and school.”
Yes, Kitty, day by day we will miss you. We love you. You will be forever in our hearts and memories.♦
