Billy Ray Ross, Sr.

Billy Ray Ross Sr., 88, of East Sacramento, passed away at home on May 13, 2016. Born Nov. 23, 1927, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Billy was one of four children born to Walter Ross and Mary Elizabeth (Clement) Ross. After graduation, Billy joined the US Marine Corps – 1st Division (Guadalcanal) in 1944 and conducted post-war policing duties in Japan and China. After the war, Billy earned a degree in Accounting at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. Billy then joined the newly formed Tactical Nuclear Air Command of the USAF where he was a navigator and bombardier in B-45’s while in Europe over 5 years during the Cold War. Billy then taught ROTC at the University of Illinois for several years. After leaving the Air Force as a Captain, Billy joined the US Dept. of Health, Education, and Welfare as an auditor, eventually leading the Sacramento regional branch office and retiring in 1978. Billy then used his CPA in private practice until full retirement in 2000.

Billy is survived by his wife Blanch “BJ” (Wilson) Ross, sons Billy Jr. and Phillip, and daughters Constance, Leslie, Carole, and Barbara. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and his faithful Scotty dog Whoopi.

Billy was very active in the Masons, including his Blue Lodge (#830), and in York Rite, Scottish Rite, and Shriners. Billy served as Treasurer in many of these Masonic organizations.

Billy was baptized as a youth in Pine Bluff and was certain of his salvation through the love, grace, and mercy of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

The Celebration of Life for Billy is scheduled for Friday May 27th at 11:00am at the Nicoletti Funeral Home (5401 Folsom Blvd, Sacramento). Reception to follow. Contributions in Billy’s memory may be made to the Union Gospel Mission in Sacramento, CA.

Arrangements under the direction of Nicoletti, Culjis & Herberger Funeral Home, Sacramento, CA.