Sherman Oscar Ross

Sherman Oscar Ross, 88, of Hixson, Tennessee, passed into eternal rest on Saturday, February 28, 2026.

Sherman was born to Robert Julian and Emma Ross February 21, 1938, the second of four children. He grew up in Knoxville and the surrounding area. He attended Rule High School where he was active in band, serving as the Drum Major for several years, graduating in 1956. He attended the University of Tennessee, in the ROTC program and played in the Pride of the Southland Band where he again served as Drum Major. After graduating in 1961 Sherman was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force Reserve. He served his country proudly for 22 years, including a tour of Southeast Asia in 1969, before retiring as a Major in 1982.

He married Sandra Wells in June 1961, and together they had two children. Beginning in the late 1970's, Sherman and Sandra were active in the cat fancy, operating a respected breeding program for many years. After retiring from the Air Force, Sherman worked as a defense contractor, continuing to serve his country, until the 1990's when he again retired. Following Sandra's death, Sherman moved back to Tennessee and reunited with high school sweetheart, Vivien (Kittrell) Burns. They were married in December of 1999 and lived for many years in Sevierville where they ran BookHeaven Bookstore. They lived their final years in Chattanooga to be closer to family. Sherman had a lifelong love of music, especially Jazz and Swing, that was passed along to his children, as well as his love of reading. He was an avid reader with a fascination of Golden Age Science Fiction writers.

He is predeceased by his parents, Robert Julian and Emma Ross; his sisters, Latanie Hopkins and Julia Yardley; his wife, Sandra; his son, Russell; and wife, Vivien.

He is survived by his brother, Kenneth; his daughter, Kathleen; his stepdaughter, Kelly Coffelt and her husband, John Coffelt; his grandchildren, Kate, Ellis, and Carter Coffelt; his sister-in-law, Konnie Kittrell; and several nieces and nephews.

May he rest in peace in the arms of our Lord and Savior.

Services will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026 at Chattanooga National Cemetery at 2:00 p.m.

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