Lee J. Ross

Lee Ross Obituary

Family-Placed Death Notice

ROSS, Lee J. Lee J. Ross died in San Mateo on Sunday, January 30, 2011 after a lengthy illness. Lee was born in Atlanta, GA on April 19, 1924, to Freida and Leon Rosenberg. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, son Jeff (Carla) and granddaughters, Emma Ross and Alison Jacobi. He was predeceased by his beloved daughter Dana Ross Jacobi in 2002. He will be deeply missed by Carter Dyal (Tara), Ginger Dyal and Paul Miller (Marya). His Prator in-laws loved and respected him: Dennis (Michele), Charles (Anita) and Mary, along with numerous nieces and nephews. After serving in the Army Air Corps as a radio operator in the Pacific during World War II, and earning the Air Medal, Lee started his career at Gaylord Container Box Company in Atlanta which subsequently was acquired by Crown Zellerbach. After serving in numerous positions within Crown, Lee ultimately moved to the San Francisco area, where he retired from Crown as Vice President of CZ International. A lifelong musician, Lee was a founding member and drummer for The Atlanta 17, a charity band founded in 1960, auditioned with Benny Goodman, and included Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey as well as Buddy Rich among his professional relationships. A celebration of a life well-lived will be held on Saturday, February 12 at 11:30 a.m. at the Peninsula Golf & Country Club, 801 Madera Drive, San Mateo, CA. We are eternally grateful to Vitas Hospice, Nenita Flores and Reyna's Home for their love and care. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to KCSM FM Jazz 91, 1700 West Hillsdale Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94402, the Alzheimer's Association or the charity of your choice.

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Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Feb. 6, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Lee Ross

4 Entries

Paul Troup

January 30, 2023

Met Lee through Liz. Loved hearing the southern accent in SFO!

Steve Heard

February 12, 2011

I could write a book about my relationship with Lee and the things he taught me, but for now, I’ll get to the point, as Lee would often suggest.

I met Lee over 20 years ago when I joined Morrison Travel. I figured we were worlds apart and didn’t expect more than a working relationship with him. We soon discovered that we shared a mutual love of jazz, and from there was born a long friendship.

Over the years Lee advised me, recommended me, guided me, ate, drank and laughed with me. He was a great wise mentor and friend.

Among my favorite memories are those about what we called ‘therapy sessions’ at his place. I’d leave work frustrated, then head to Lee’s. He’d pour me a drink, then play his drums while dispensing advice.

As we got to know each other, I was fascinated and humored by Lee's stories, his ability to cut to the chase, to keep it simple, and his ability to relate to people. He was also very kind and generous.

While walking down the street once, he stopped to give a homeless guy a buck. He told me he always carried ones with him for tips and in case he'd run into someone down on his luck. I try to remember to do the same today.

One night Lee spotted me and my wife in line at Yoshi’s Jazz club. He invited us to have dinner with him and Liz and to sit at his reserved table in the jazz house. It was a great and memorable night.

Speaking of Liz, I remember when they met. Lee told me about the new lady in his life, how smart and independent she was and how fun and full of life she was. He told me he didn't know how long it would last, but he was going to enjoy the relationship while he could. I loved his attitude.

I cherish the memories of lunches with Lee, talking about the 49ers, the Alabama Crimson Tide, or jazz records, old and new. I’ll never forget the site and sound of him playing drums with the big band at his wedding.

Most of all, I’ll remember the life lessons he taught me, and how genuine and honest he was.

Lee was my mentor and my friend, and today I find my self being friend and mentor to other young people. It is very rewarding, and I understand why Lee did it.

Although I share your sadness at his passing, I am also so very happy and honored to have spent time with, learned from and been a friend to Lee Ross.

Steve Heard

Paul Troup

February 7, 2011

Lee was a delightful Southern gentleman with a depth of talent few appreciated. I enjoyed my time with him and trust Liz and family will cherish the fond memories, Paul T (GA)

Terri N

February 6, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

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