Rev. Dr. Joseph L Ross

Joseph Lanny Ross, Sr. - A Life of Faith, Teaching, and Leadership July 3, 1940 - December 29, 2024 Joseph Lanny Ross, Sr. (Lanny, Dad, Poppi or Dr. Ross) took his first breath on July 3, 1940, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Born to Annie Urquhart Ross and raised by her and Jonathan David Ross. His early education was grounded in the Philadelphia School System, where he graduated from Simon Gratz High School in December of 1959. Even as a young man, Lanny's compassion and leadership qualities were clear. He and Anne Elizabeth Taylor, a fellow student, were named "Most Helpful" in their yearbook, a sign of the lifetime partnership they would later share. Lanny's education continued at Lincoln University and Cheyney State University. Although he did not complete his college education at this time, he later attended the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Finance from 1965 to 1966 and earned a Bachelor of Professional Studies at Elizabethtown College in 1975. During these years, he embraced the responsibility of caring for his family, working at the United States Post Office, starting a delicatessen near 56 th and Market Street or supervising at state correctional institutions Eastern and Graterford. He reconnected with Anne Elizabeth Taylor, and after a fateful first date where Lanny nearly drowned, the two grew inseparable. They married on September 1, 1963, and celebrated over 61 years of marriage, sharing a deep love for each other and their three children: Joseph, Darrin, and Monnae. A Man of Faith and Ministry Lanny's calling to ministry came early in his life, and his journey in faith was intertwined with his personal and professional growth. Both Lanny and Anne accepted the Lord together, beginning a lifelong shared commitment to serving God. He started his biblical studies at the Philadelphia Bible Academy under the mentorship of Pastor Carmine DiBiase. His ministry began formally on March 23, 1969, when he received his license to preach at the Church of Philadelphia. By February 2, 1971, he was ordained through the A.A. Allen Revivals Inc. in Phoenix, Arizona. He later earned several degrees from the International Seminary, including a Bachelor of Arts (1983), Master of Arts (1986), Doctor of Theology (1989), and Doctor of Philosophy (1990). A Lifetime of Leadership in Preaching, Teaching and Service Rev. Ross's preaching took him across the globe, with God guiding his steps to lead ministry and teaching tours in Israel, Egypt, Ukraine, Italy, Jamaica, Russia, Estonia, and Turkey. His passion for teaching went hand in hand with his ministry. He founded the Church Triumphant, Inc., in Philadelphia, (2005) where he served as Senior Pastor and inspired generations with his profound biblical knowledge. In 2006, he established the Accelerated School of Christian Ministry International, Inc. (ASCMI), which grew to include branches in the United States, Ukraine, Canada, and Denmark. For over 31 years, Dr. Ross was a vital leader at Deliverance Evangelistic Church. He served as Church Coordinator, Church Administrator, and Dean of the Bible Institute, later becoming the Dean of Christian Education. His steadfast leadership and commitment to biblical education helped shape the spiritual growth of the church community under the guidance of Dr. Benjamin Smith, Sr., and later, Rev. Glen Spaulding. In 2006-2007, Dr. Ross spearheaded a significant partnership with Lancaster Bible College. He collaborated closely with William Kabasenche, Director of the "LBC Institute of Biblical Enrichment Continuing Education Program, led by Dr. Peter Teague, then President of LBC. This pioneering program was the forerunner of the current DEC/LBC partnership. Though the initial program was halted and later restructured, Dr. Ross's involvement laid the foundation for the current incarnation of the partnership. While his direct connection was lost in later years, his influence on the program's development remains significant. Dr. Ross mentored over sixty pastors, ministers, and teachers worldwide, providing spiritual guidance to a vast network of church leaders. His service extended beyond the pulpit, where he worked as a Chaplain with the Philadelphia Police Department's Northwest Division since 1986, providing spiritual care and support to officers and community members alike. He was also a respected educator, teaching in various institutions such as the Lancaster Bible College's Continuing Education Program and the Evangelical Teachers Association where he was a board member for 13 years. Dr. Ross became a certified Mental Health First Aid provider and spent many years counseling those in need. Throughout his life, Dr. Ross was honored with numerous awards and recognitions, including the President George W. Bush 2006 Presidential Education Award and the Kingdom Leadership Award from Dr. Myles Monroe. He also participated in the Operation Ten City Pastors Orientation with Bill Winston Ministries in 2023. In addition to his ministry work, Lanny also held an influential role in the professional world. He served as Assistant Executive Director and Administrator of Training for the Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc., where he led apprenticeship programs to certify trainees as journeyman draftsmen. His ability to balance his faith with his professional skills made him a unique and respected figure in both his community and industry. A Family Man and Legacy of Love Beyond his vast accomplishments in ministry and education, Lanny (Dad or Poppi) was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, sibling and uncle. He is survived by his beloved wife, Anne, and their three children: Joseph (Esther); Darrin (Sharmila); and Monnae (Lionell). He was the proud grandfather of Kiasha, Bria, Tiffany, Dominque, Hannah, Monnae Cierra, Joanna, and Ariana. His grandsons include Scott, Taylor (Tj) and Julian. He was also blessed with great- grandchildren: great-granddaughters Lanni, Isabella, Trinity, and Sy'Vannah, and great-grandsons Eli, LaMarr, and Syxx. Lanny is also survived by his only sister, Jennifer, who shared a lifelong bond with him. And two nieces Yvette (Shelton) and April. He was also proud and will be missed by a host of spiritual sons and daughters. Things You May Not Know Though many knew of his ministry and teaching, there were some fun and personal sides to Lanny that only those close to him might have known. For instance, his favorite food was coconut custard pie, and his favorite movie was Soylent Green. Lanny had a special love for the song "Search Me, O Lord," and during the Christmas season, his booming voice could be heard saying, "Ho Ho Ho!" Another little-known fact is that he pledged Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. and did not cross because he had to take care of his family. Lanny also had a great sense of humor and could quote at least one line from the Richard Pryor and Cicely Tyson movie Bustin' Loose. In 2017, Lanny discovered, through DNA testing, that he was 50% Jewish with Russian and Ukrainian ancestry. This revelation aligned uncannily with the fact that he had been preaching and teaching in those regions for years, unknowingly connecting with his heritage. A Life Well-Lived Poppi, Dr. Ross Dad Lanny took his last breath on December 29, 2024, leaving behind a rich legacy of faith, love, teaching, and service. His life was a testament to his unwavering belief in God's purpose for him, and his spirit will continue to guide and inspire all those who knew him. May we all "Be blessed and blessed some more forever." Funeral Services will take place on Tuesday January 7, 2025 at 11AM in Deliverance Evangelistic Church 2001 W. Lehigh Avenue, Philadelphia, PA. Viewing begins at 9AM. Interment will follow services in Ivy Hill Cemetery-Philadelphia, To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rev. Dr. Joseph L Ross, please visit our floral store.