James Ross

James R. Ross NORFOLK - James Robert Ross, 79, was peacefully called home by Jesus on Dec. 17, 2009. He was born in Georgia, April 21, 1930, to Rannie Benton Ross and Charles Richard Ross. He was one of nine children. He lived most of his life in Norfolk. As a young man, he served in the U.S. Army. He retired as a civil service worker after 26 years of service as a foreman. James "Bobby" leaves behind his wife of 61 years of marriage, Shirley; a daughter and her husband, Darlene and Billy Francis of North Carolina; three granddaughters and their spouses, Amy and Brian Bush, Jamie and Heath Fountain, and Suzanne Francis, all of North Carolina. He is also survived by his great-grandson, William Ross Francis of North Carolina; his sister, Margaret Duran of Florida; and brothers, Jimmy Ross of Georgia and Frank Ross of Florida; as well as many nieces and nephews. Bobby had several passions in life. His family was his first and most important part of his life. He enjoyed golf, fishing and watching football. His all-time favorite passion that he shared with his wife was horse racing. He and his wife traveled many miles over the years to enjoy the sport. Bobby was a loving devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. The viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. today, Dec. 21, at Smith & Williams Funeral Home, Norfolk Chapel, on Norview Avenue. A celebration of his life will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 22, at the Smith & Williams Funeral Chapel. He will be laid to rest at Rosewood Memorial Park following the service with a reception to follow at the Rosewood Memorial Park reception lounge. You may pay condolences to the family at www. mem.com.