Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home - Newport News

210 Harpersville Road

Newport News, Virginia

Neil Ross Obituary

Pastor Neil Canfield Ross, 86, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones on February 24, 2023.

Neil was born on a rural farm in Wakeman, Ohio on October 20, 1936 to Kenneth and Marguerite Ross. He married his high school sweetheart, Jane T. Ross, on August 2, 1958, after the two graduated from Moody Bible Institute. Their marriage stood the test of time, and never ceased to be an embodiment of the vows they took. They were lucky enough to have four beautiful children; a son Timothy, three daughters; Cheryl, Theresa, and Debbie, 10 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren.

Neil moved to Newport News in 1965 and within a year founded Community Bible Church. Retiring at 83, he devoted over 50 years of his life to his ministry, one that went far beyond the pulpit. Neil was a lover of people. His mild manner, kind heart, humility, and love for God's Word was magnetic. He used those skills all over the world, doing missionary work on five continents and teaching with his wife for a year at Harvesters Bible College in South Africa. He was a man who practiced what he preached and preached what he practiced. He ran the race and finished well.

A viewing will be held at W J Smith & Son Funeral Home on Wednesday March 1, 2023 from 6:00-7:00 PM.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at Community Bible Church, Saturday March 4, 2023 at 2:00 PM.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Daily Press on Feb. 28, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Neil Ross

Sponsored by W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home - Newport News.

Not sure what to say?





Santo Scolaro

March 2, 2023

Neil was a father image to me and a mentor. He taught me what it meant to be a man of God, a husband, and a father. He taught me skills from roofing and cabinet making to driving a farm tractor. He taught me through example to pray and patiently wait on the Lord. I have shared with my sons and other young men, the things I learned from Neil. His legacy goes on.

Dave & Cheryl Gray

March 2, 2023

Dave and I are very sorry to hear about the loss of your dear husband, father and sibling. We so appreciated Neil's shepherding of the CBC flock during our time there. We rejoice with you that Neil is now whole and with His Savior whom he served so well. We mourn with your family as you miss his presence on this earth. May the Lord comfort each of you as only He can, giving peace and grace for the moments and days ahead.

Gayle Grapes Richsrdson

February 28, 2023

Dear Jane, so sorry to hear about Neil. Will always remember our time together at TFI. I am praying for you and your family for our Lord's strength and peace. Blessings and hugs. Gayle Grapes Richardson.

Alice craig

February 28, 2023

I am very sorry for your loss. I have such fond memories of your family. Bless you all.

Yvonne Carroll Turner

February 27, 2023

Prayers for the family for peace and comfort.

Melva Lindsey Permar

February 27, 2023

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Daniel Bearden

February 27, 2023

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results

Make a Donation
in Neil Ross's name

Memorial Events
for Neil Ross

Mar

1

Viewing

6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

W J Smith & Son Funeral Home

Mar

4

Memorial service

2:00 p.m.

Community Bible Church

Funeral services provided by:

W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home - Newport News

210 Harpersville Road, Newport News, VA 23601

How to support Neil's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Neil Ross's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more