James Eugene Ross

James Eugene Ross Jr.

November 5th 1952-June 25th 2025

We announce the life and death of James E. Ross Jr., who left us on the twenty-fifth day of June, at the age of 72.

Jim was born in Beaver Falls, PA on the day of the presidential election. While his mother was in labor, she stubbornly insisted her husband stop at the voting poll. After she had cast her vote, she proceeded to the hospital. Jim was delivered as a healthy, strong baby boy, weighing over ten pounds.

Big Jim's life was defined by humor, intelligence, and unwavering devotion to his family. His generous and kind nature was beloved by all. Jim had a work ethic honored by his co-workers and supervisors alike, and took pride in his involvement as a labor union member and local representative. Jim also spent time assisting with political campaign management. Throughout his childhood, Jim grew up playing both organized and sandlot baseball, along with football and basketball. Kevin and Steve made trips with Jim to Cooperstown and Canton, embracing love for sport, and good times on the road.

After graduating from Beaver Area High School in 1970, Jim earned a degree in political science from Kansas State University, then worked at St. Joe's Mill, until he ultimately obtained employment with US Airways in 1980, where he met his wife, Kathleen (Kathy) and were soon married. He received several acknowledgements throughout his career. Jim and Kathy made a warm, loving home in Beaver, Pennsylvania, and later moved their family to Fernandina Beach, FL, where they embraced the island offerings.

Above all, Jim was proud of his children, grandchildren, and his time spent with his family and friends. Jim was also proud of his families service to our country, and his father's service as a World War II veteran, county commissioner, state senator and union president. Jim was known to be proud of his son's dedicated service as a firefighter and paramedic. Whether playing catch in the backyard with his son's or taking his family on vacation, happiness was the result of his presence. A relaxing evening walk with his family, watching the Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins and Pirates, wrestling on the living room floor, meant everything to us-time with Jim.

Jim is survived by his twin granddaughters Stevie and Rebekah, his son Kevin, his daughter-in-law Hannah, his eight sisters: Judy, Jan, Debbie, Becky, Helen, Bernie, Dottie and Barb, and is preceded in death by his father James E. Ross Sr., his mother Dorothy, his wife Kathleen, and his son Steven.

All who would like to enjoy Jim's company are welcome to participate in the celebration of his wonderful life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations (or any acceptable contribution) be made to the blood bank of their choice.

We are grateful for the time we had with Jim. Although we are sad to be without him, we find peace and comfort in the immortal loving memories Jim gave us.

"Big Jim's legacy lives on- every act of kindness, every fight for what's right, and in the unbreakable bonds of family, friendship, and solidarity he built along the way. He stood for fairness, hard work, and we're all stronger together."