John E. Gross

John Edward Gross, 77, entered his eternal home in Heaven on May 28, 2026, where he was united with his Lord and Savior and his beloved daughter, Corrie Gross Bechtelheimer. Born on September 20, 1948, to Edward and Rosemary Gross, John lived a life marked by faith, family, hard work, and service to others.

John was a devoted husband to the love of his life, Sandy, for almost 57 years. Together they built a beautiful family and a legacy grounded in love, strength, and unwavering support. He was a proud father to Brian, Kristi, and Corrie, and “Poppy” to ten grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immeasurable joy to his life.

John first became known as a “Wonder Boy” while playing basketball at Arkansas Tech University, where he established himself as one of the university’s all-time greats and still holds the school record for rebounds. His remarkable athletic career earned him the great distinction of being inducted into the first class of the Arkansas Tech Sports Hall of Fame and the first inductee into the Parkers Chapel Sports Hall. He was also inducted into the Union County Sports Hall of Fame. In recognition of his accomplishments and lasting impact, he was named a Distinguished Alumnus of Arkansas Tech University, and the John Gross Sports Athletic Complex was dedicated in his honor.

But to those who knew him best, John’s greatest legacy was not found in trophies or records—it was found in the lives he impacted every single day.

His career in education spanned nearly five decades, during which he faithfully served generations of students, families, and educators as coach, teacher, principal, and superintendent. Much of his career was devoted to Parkers Chapel Schools, a place he dearly loved and proudly called home. Later, he served as Superintendent of Smackover-Norphlet School District before ultimately returning to Parkers Chapel to conclude his remarkable career in education. To countless students and colleagues, he was more than an educator—he was a mentor, encourager, and steady presence who believed deeply in people and in the value of hard work.

John never slowed down. Whether he was fishing, duck hunting, remodeling houses, or working long after most would have retired, he was happiest when he was busy and serving others. Even into his seventies, few could keep up with him. His work ethic was legendary, his determination unmatched, and his heart immeasurable. To all who knew and loved him, he truly was a Wonder Boy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Rosemary Gross, and his cherished daughter, Corrie.

Left to honor and cherish his memory are his wife, Sandy Gross; son Brian Gross (Melissa); daughter Kristi Lowery (Ross), all of Parkers Chapel; brothers Tony Gross, Mark Gross, Timmy Gross, and David Gross; sister Martha Osbun (Bill); ten grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, former students, and colleagues whose lives were forever touched by him.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday, June 1, 2026 at the Parkers Chapel Gymnasium. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at the Parkers Chapel Gymnasium, with interment to follow in Parkers Chapel Cemetery under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors.

Memorials may be made to #teamcorrie Cancer Foundation, 145 Parker Drive, El Dorado, Arkansas, or to HOPE Landing, Inc., P.O. Box 10215, El Dorado, Arkansas 71730.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.youngsfuneralhome.com.