Carolyn ROSS

78, of Clearwater Beach, passed away peacefully at home with family at her bedside on August 20, 2018 following a long illness with Parkinson's. She was born on April 24, 1940, in Atlanta, GA. Then her family moved to Durham, NC, next door to her future husband when she was in high school. After graduating from Durham High School, where she was head cheerleader and Homecoming Queen, she married and began working as secretary to help support her family while her husband, Dr. T. Johnson Ross Jr. finished college, medical school, and residency before moving to Clearwater, FL in 1971. During that time she also raised three children and attended Trinity University in San Antonio, TX.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, Mabel and Woodrow Payne; grandson, T. Johnson Ross IV; brothers-in-law, Richard Ross and James Bloodworth. She is survived by her husband, Dr. T. Johnson Ross Jr.; her children, T. J. Ross III (Paula), Cathy A. Ross, and Dr. Christopher L. Ross (Raisa); her sister, Nancy Bloodworth; grandchildren, Levi Ross, Rachel Sweeney, Alexis Ross, and Christian Ross; also her nephews Mike (Janet) and David (Cindy) Bloodworth.

Carolyn has been a wonderful and loving wife, mother, and friend to many in her life who have been fortunate enough to see her smile, know her kindness, unselfishness, and share in her love and joy of life. She and her husband have been married for 59 years, discovering over time the secrets of a successful and loving partnership in life, enjoying travel around the world, and boating along the west coast of Florida.

Before she lost her voice to Parkinson's, she would often sing "I'll Be Loving You Always" to her husband, who would then return the expression of love to her. Carolyn brought much sunshine and joy to her family and friends. She will be dearly missed.

To our friends who share in our grief, we hope you will understand, but we have celebrated her life and memory in a private service. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Suncoast Hospice Foundation (suncoasthospicefoundation.org) or to the Morton Plant Foundation (mortonplantmeasefoundation.org). -The Ross Family. Condolences at: www.serenityfuneralhomelargo.com.