Rosalind Butler Ross

Born on September 19, 1928, in Jackson, Mississippi, Rosalind was the daughter of Hattie Sanders Butler and William Raiford Butler. From her early years, she carried strength, a deep sense of compassion, and a steady devotion to her family—qualities that shaped her entire life. After graduating from Walnut Grove High School, she attended Millsaps College, where she was a proud member of Phi Mu Fraternity. Her love of learning led her to earn a master’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. Rosalind built a meaningful career as a second-grade teacher and librarian in the Jackson Public School System, where she touched young lives with her patience, kindness, and belief in the importance of education. Later, she brought that same dedication to her work with the Mississippi State Senate, where she ended her career as assistant to Senator Hob Bryan, and enjoyed time and lunches with her “Senate girls” even after retiring.

She made lifelong friends through her Bridge groups and clubs, cherishing the fellowship and laughter they shared. When her sons were young, she found joy in serving as a Cub Scout leader, supporting PTA and school activities, and staying deeply involved in her church community. Reading and music were among her greatest joys, and she passed those passions to the generations who followed her.

Rosalind’s faith was a guiding force throughout her life. She was an active and devoted member of the United Methodist Church, and after moving to St. Catherine’s Village, she found a loving church home at Madison Methodist Church. At St. Catherine’s, she was known for her gentle spirit, her graciousness, and the warmth she extended to friends and neighbors.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, Thomas Albert Ross Jr.; her son, Thomas Albert Ross III; and her siblings William Butler Jr., Beverly Butler, Robert Butler, Charles Butler, Gene Butler, Josiah Butler, and Mary Butler Seale. Rosalind leaves behind a family who adored her: her son, Charles Timothy Ross, and his wife, Susan Ammons Ross, of Madison; her daughter-in-law, Gayle Megginson Ross, of Brookhaven; three grandchildren, Arwen Ross Grippi (Cam), Cameron Ross (Andrea), and Brad Ross (Liz); three great-grandchildren, Katie Sharak, Tommy Sharak, and Drew Ross; and her great-great-granddaughter, Lois Sharak.

Memorials may be made to Madison Methodist Church, 100 Post Oak Road, Madison, MS 39110; St. Catherine’s Village Foundation, 200 Dominican Drive, Madison, MS 39110; or to a charity of one’s choice.

Heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate aides and nursing staff at St. Catherine’s Tuscany, as well as the dedicated team from Heart of Hospice for their exceptional comfort care. Rosalind treasured each of them.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 16, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Parkway Funeral Home in Ridgeland, MS. The funeral service will follow in the chapel, with a private graveside service at Lakewood Cemetery in Clinton.