Ruth Mae Ross

Born December 11, 1932, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Gertrude Lang Majchrycz and Vernon Lang, Ruth overcame a difficult childhood to live a life defined by resilience, service, and unconditional love.

A proud United States Army Sergeant during the Korean Conflict, Ruth was stationed in Japan and California and later attended Kent State University through the GI Bill. She married Sanford “Sandy” George Ross in 1956, and together they raised their family in North Carolina before making Fort Mill, South Carolina, their home in 1973. Following Sandy’s passing in 2019, Ruth moved to Columbia to be closer to family.

Ruth devoted her life to raising her five children before beginning a career as a Realtor with Tega Cay Realty. She also volunteered as an EMT with Tega Cay Volunteer EMS and enjoyed duplicate bridge, mahjong, art, and spending time with friends.

Known for her warmth, Ruth never met a stranger. She was an exceptional cook whose recipes were featured in The Charlotte Observer, but her greatest joy came from bringing her family together around her table. She was a devoted wife and lovingly cared for Sandy throughout his long illness.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Sanford “Sandy” George Ross; her parents; and her siblings Vernon Lang Jr., Patricia, Darlene, and Steve.

She is survived by her children: Susan O’Con; Sharon Sawyer (Mike); April Ann Lang; Stuart Ross (Stacie); and Pete Lang (Tracey); her sister, Joyce Blunk; 19 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and dear friends.

The family wishes to thank the Home Based Primary Care Team at the Department of Veterans Affairs and the compassionate staff of The Harmony Assisted Living in Columbia, especially Wendy, for the extraordinary love and care they provided Ruth.

Above all, Ruth will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose kindness, strength, and generous heart touched everyone she met. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished and in the countless lives she enriched through her love, service, and unwavering compassion.

A private family service will be held on August 10, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Fort Jackson National Cemetery.