Erma L. Ross Obituary in Knoxville at Unity Mortuary

Obituary For Erma L. Ross

Erma L. Ross would have been 100 years old in exactly one month, however, on Tuesday, October 3, the Lord had different plans and she said her goodbye to all of us who loved her so dearly.

Born in Kingston, TN on November 3, 1923, she was the third child of Gilbert and Susie Liggett. Sadly, her mother died three years later leaving Erma’s father to raise his three children alone. Despite the many challenges and struggles during the early part of the 20th century, Gilbert raised his three children to believe and achieve - AND THEY DID! Erma graduated from Knoxville College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education and later attended the University of Tennessee for post graduate studies.

Erma’s first teaching job was at Campbell High School in Rockwood, TN. She also was employed by the Atomic Energy Commission as a clerk typist in Oak Ridge. Returning to teaching, she taught at Sam E. Hill Elementary and West Hills Elementary in Knoxville, TN. After retirement, she continued the work ethic that her father had instilled in his children. She worked even after retirement. She worked as an assistant to Bob Booker, the Administrative Director. Her favorite “after retirement” job, however, was at Unity Mortuary where she served in many capacities, including the first female limo driver.

She was a faithful member of First United Presbyterian Church (McMillan Chapel on the Knoxville College campus) which merged with Fourth Presbyterian to become Fourth United Presbyterian Church.

She was a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Links, Inc., and the Top Ladies of Distinction.

At Knoxville College, she met Clifford Ross and the “marriage made in Heaven” began. In 2005, he preceded her in death. Others who preceded her in death are the following: Gilbert and Mamie Liggett; John and Dorothy Liggett; Myrtle and Charles Moore; Allasue L. Patterson Jones; Margaret and Amos Mitchell; Kathy Gaiter; Connie and Gaither Mills; Margaret and Felix Gaiter; Kathy Lowery Roberts and many other extended family.

She is survived by her only child Patricia and son-in-law Bobby Jennings; granddaughters Leslie Green and Tracey Hill; great-grandchildren Martez and Jaida Hill; sisters Bettye L. Patrick, Marion L. (Lou) Contini; Joy L. (Anthony) Ingram; Jean Robinson; Carolyn (Curtis) O’Neal; Ernie Moore; Peggy (John) Jackson; Felix R. Gaiter; Anthony Mills; Lorraine Brown; Dorothy (Larry) Brice; a loving host of great and great-great nieces and nephews and so many devoted friends, former students, and church family who she lovingly called her “baby boys or girls” and always considered them her “Angels.”

The family will receive friends on Sunday, October 8, 2023 from 2:00 - 3:00pm with the service to follow at Fourth United Presbyterian Church, 1321 North Broadway St.

The final resting place will be held on Monday, October 9, 2023 at 1:00 PM at East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery - Lyons View. A dove release will conclude.

Special Appreciation to: The Summit Medical Group and the very dedicated staff at Smoky Mountain Health and Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the following in memory of Erma L. Ross: Alzheimer’s Association, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or to “Special Projects” at Fourth United Presbyterian Church, Knoxville Tennessee.

Unity Mortuary is honored to serve this family. www.unitymortuary1979.com.

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Ned Wilson sent Beautiful Dreams for Erma L. Ross - October 06, 2023

Sending my prayers to your family
Ned Wilson

Send flowers for Erma L. Ross

I am sending my condolences to Patricia and other family members. I have such fond memories of Mrs. Ross. I think about the times that I spent the night at her home with Pat as we pretended to study for upcoming exams. We spent more time laughing and talking than really studying. Mrs. Ross was always kind and never stopped us from making all of the noise as we laughed about things happening at good ole K.C. May she rest in peace close to the love of her life, her husband Clifford. From Williejo Harold, the "daughter from another mother"

Mrs. Ross and I shared the same birthday .Her smile and gentle manner will be remembered by many .She was an inspiration to all who had the privilege to know her. We, also, attended the First United Church at KC with our families. Mr. Ross, just before church services, taught my son, Anthony ,how to tie his tie as he lost his father at 12 years old. May your precious memories comfort and sustain you during this difficult time. Blessings and love to this wonderful family.

Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Our deepest heartfelt sympathy and may the PEACE of GOD that surpasses ALL understanding comfort each of you now and forever. Treasure the memories of your Love Ones in your Hearts forevermore. Continual prayers for ALL during the days, months and years to come.
Lillian West-Collins & Family, Jamesena West-Hardin & Family

To The Family, We are so saddened to hear about Mrs. Ross passing. I remember when she use to visit relatives across the street from my family prior to their passing. She was a ray of sunshine with that beautiful smile and classy walk. Whenever we would see Mrs. Ross, she greeted you with kind and encouraging words. The teacher/mentor in her was always there. Mrs. Ross has left a legacy that her family, friends and former students can be proud of. Our condolences and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. Mattie Johnson and Family

To Pat & family, I dearly loved your mom. She was a beacon of light to all undergrad sorority sisters at KC. We share the same name spelling. It filled me with warmth being so far away from home. My prayers be with you and your family at this time. Erma Jones

My earliest memory of Mrs Ross was at Sam E. Hill she wasn't my teacher but taught the class next to mine, I Always admired her and thought she was a very pretty lady, I felt she was the prettiest among all the teachers there, and that Walk😌I shall always remember... Mrs Ross' kindness cont'd thru Life A million dollar sincere smile...Unforgettable ! And I certain I'm not alone in this regard No you not all the kids from Lonsdale. Loved mrs Ross Pat we are sorry for your Lost. Love Joann and Sandra Debro

My earliest memory of Mrs Ross was at Sam E. Hill she wasn't my teacher but taught the class next to mine, I Always admired her and thought she was a very pretty lady, I felt she was the prettiest among all the teachers there, and that Walk😌I shall always remember... Mrs Ross' kindness cont'd thru Life A million dollar sincere smile...Unforgettable ! And I certain I'm not alone in this regard🌹Rose B Davis

What an amazing life. Mrs. Ross saw world shifting changes in her almost 100 years. Her 1000 watt smile shone upon all who knew here, even me a newcomer to her beloved church. Grace and love to her dear Pat and all those who knew and loved Mrs. Ross. LaVance Davis