Richard Joseph Ross

Richard Joseph “Dick” Ross, 77, born in Cincinnati, Ohio, passed away peacefully surrounded by love and family on February 13, 2026.

After growing up in Cincinnati, Dick went on to work in the construction industry for more than 30 years where he headed up several major construction projects around the United States including the expansion of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. He was an avid golfer and loved following his favorite sports teams, the Cincinnati Bengals and Cincinnati Reds.

Dick will be remembered for his quick wit, warm sense of humor, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. Dick had a way of making people laugh and feeling welcome, and his kindness and spirit touched many lives. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Dick was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Leah Anne Ross; his parents, Keith Preston Ross and Alice Mae Ross; and his brother, William “Buck” Ross. He is survived by his two children Matthew (Lauren) Ross and Sarah (David) Olejnik; three grandchildren Rachel, Barrett, and Lydia who knew him lovingly by “Pop;" and beloved friend Elizabeth Hoskins. He was a proud and loving father and grandfather whose family meant everything to him.

In keeping with Dick’s wishes, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America at vva.org or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org in his memory.

His legacy of laughter, love, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.