Dorris "Lee" Ross

Dorris Lee Ross, age 95, passed away on January 9, 2021 and his wife of 74 years, Martha Frances Ross, age 93, passed away 2 days later, January 11, due to complications related to Covid 19. They were residing at Truman Gardens in Independence, Missouri where they had spent the past year after leaving their beloved home on North River Boulevard that Lee built in 1961. Many friends and passersby would see Lee and Martha sitting out on the front porch, especially during the summer months, and stop by their tomato stand. They were so proud of their tomatoes and took great pleasure in sending their friends/neighbors and other customers away with a basket of joy.

Lee was born on January 25, 1925 in Henry County, Tennessee, in a log cabin, to parents John Henson and Ivie Lubie Ross. He dropped out of high school in 1943 to join the Navy and served as an Electricians Mate 3rd Class until the end of World War II. Following his discharge he returned to Tennessee, to search for his soulmate Martha, whom he married on November 30, 1946. Upon successful completion of his GED, they moved to Independence where he attended one year of college at William Jewell. Lee was an electrician at Armco Steel for 32 years but was always working other odd jobs and building houses for relatives on the side. He was a member and Priest at the Remnant Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints. He was active in Boy Scouts with Troop 203 at West College RLDS Church and a member of the Tribe of Mic-O-Say with the tribal name Honorary Warrior Swift Flashing White Lightning. Lee enjoyed fishing, gardening, carpentry and being active with grandchildren.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents, brothers J.W. and Jamie, who also passed away recently due to Covid 19, and his sister Daryl Connelly. He is survived by his sisters Virginia Perrin (Don), and Betty Berry (Bo) and brother Dallas (JoAnn).

Lee and Martha are survived by 3 children, Kay Ross Davis (Roy), Tim Ross (Carolyn) and David Ross (Rachel). Grandchildren Michael Leahy Hanson, Molly and Megan Ross, Zac (Catherine), Hayden (Amanda), Darce and Brogan Ross. Great grandchildren Ross and Hunter Hanson, Mackley, Alena and Everlee Ross, five bonus grandchildren and nineteen nieces and nephews.

Due to Covid 19 protocols, a private service will be held for family at Speaks Suburban Chapel, followed with a private graveside service at Mound Grove Cemetery.

The service will be streamed live on Tim Ross’ Facebook page and also available on Lee & Martha’s memorial page on the Speaks Chapel website shortly after the service is completed.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation in their honor to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, The National Park Foundation, or just plant a tomato in the spring and enjoy.

And finally, WEAR A MASK, SOCIAL DISTANCE AND GET VACCINATED.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel (816) 373-3600)