Keith Marrell Ross Sr.

"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." – 2 Timothy 4:7

Keith Marrell Ross, Sr., affectionately known to many as "Mr. Cool" and "Big Ross", was a man of strength, style, laughter, and love. He was born on November 29, 1955, in Kansas City, Missouri, to the proud union of Arthur Lee and Jerline Pauline Ross.

Keith was educated in the Kansas City Public School District and graduated with the Central High School Class of 1975. His desire for growth and excellence led him to further his education at Lane College, before returning home to Kansas City where destiny would align. It was there that he met the love of his life, Crystal Ann Brooks. Their love blossomed into a marriage on June 18, 1983, that spanned 42 years of family, legacy and memories, and from their union came three beloved children: Keith Jr., Keidra, and Kristopher.

Keith was a man of great dedication and work ethic. He faithfully served with the City of Kansas City Parks and Recreation Department, where his commitment, reliability, and leadership touched many lives until his health required him to retire with over 30 years of honorable service.

But Keith's legacy extended far beyond his career. He was a pillar in his family, neighborhood, and community. To know him was to know laughter, wisdom, and joy. He had a natural gift for mentorship and fatherhood, especially to the young men of South Benton, where he resided throughout his adult life. Whether through his sharp wit, his unforgettable sense of humor, or his signature "clean and sharp" style-Keith left a mark on everyone he met. His love for sports, cars, and shoes added to his unique flair, but it was his big heart and larger-than-life presence that truly defined him.

After a long and courageous battle with illness, Keith gained his eternal victory when the Lord called him home on August 20, 2025, at 1:25 p.m. at University Health Truman Medical Center.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Lee and Jerline Pauline Ross, his beloved son Keith Marrell Ross, Jr., and his brother Arthur Lee Ross, Jr.

Keith leaves behind to cherish his memory, Crystal Ann Ross of Kansas City, MO; his children Keidra Monet Ross (Jamel) of Arlington, TX, and Kristopher Mikael Ross (Kierra) of Kansas City, MO, Tyrell Ross of Kansas City, MO; his grandchildren Pastor Keinan M. Ross (Fay), Keith M. Ross III, Kristian Davion Ross, Kenzelee Ross, Mulan Lei Krischaan Ross, and KeiMyan Bryon Johnson; his brother Milton Eugene Ross (Rosalyn) of West Virginia; his sister Theressa Johnson (Douglass) of Kansas City, MO; five nieces, two great-nephews, and a host of extended family, neighbors, friends, and all who were blessed to encounter him.

Keith's life was one of love, laughter, and legacy. Though his voice is silent, his lessons, laughter, and love echo on through every life he touched. His journey reminds us that faith, family, and fellowship are the true treasures of life.