Even though it was a short time for me to know Lila in DC, but we had beautiful memories with her and her family. She had such a great heart and lovely personality. I was very sad to receive the news of her passing, but I know she is in a better place with the Lord.
May God give you all (her family and loved ones) the strength as you go through this tough time.
My heartfelt condolences to all the family.

Lila has been a friend, colleague and mentor for many years.  In difficult times, she  was an anchor who helped me stay grounded and a beacon of light who help me find my way. If I was unsure of what to do in a situation, she would listen and gently guide me to do the right thing. She was a force- a person who lived what she believed was right.  She was an advocate for children and the Earth. She saw beauty in people and life and the natural world. She brought this into focus for us all, reminding  of us what truly matters.  My life is forever richer for having known and loved her.  

My heart goes out to her dear family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Ms. Ross was a patient and kind teacher that loved nature. She was always in for an adventure, loved science and working on projects. I was excited to join her class this year, because I love science too.  She had so many talents and could make a boring lesson fun. She made us smile and could turn around a bad day. She was the perfect person to tell worries to. 
She loved monarchs and our class raised some monarch eggs and the 5th graders released the butterflies. She was someone who flew above the clouds and made the most of life. The brilliant teacher and beautiful person she was will always be remembered with love.
Zara

Our family is so grateful have had the gift of Mrs. Ross as a primary Montessori teacher for both of our children. Pictured below are Mrs. Ross and Elise with a monarch butterfly. I love the delight you can see on Elise's face, but what is also so incredible about this photo is that Elise normally would have been very hesitant to touch any sort of insect. Mrs. Ross’ had a special ability to bring peace and calm to the spaces and people around her, creating incredible opportunities for her students to grow and connect with the beauty of this world. Elise has a sweet memory of this moment, now almost thirteen years ago. Another aspect of Mrs. Ross’ brilliance as a teacher was her deep respect for her students; though the children of her primary classroom ranged in age from 3 to 6, Mrs. Ross truly listened to them, and they felt seen. To this day, Cara, who learned with Mrs. Ross for three years, carries a confidence and poise that Mrs. Ross fostered with her respect and honor for her students. This is an incredible gift. 

Condolences to all of Lila’s family. May the many wonderful memories of your mom, daughter, sister, spouse, and aunt sustain you. Over the years that my children learned in Mrs. Ross’ classroom, I had the privilege of helping with and enjoying lunch in the classroom with the children on many occasions. As the children settled into their lunches, there were moments of quiet and peace when Lila and I were able to chat for a few minutes. Though the moments were short, there were enough that over the years, the time added up and I was treated to a big enough view of Lila’s world to see that her family was at the center. Jesse and Dana, though I never had the privilege of meeting you, I heard about you often. It is clear that your mom was deeply proud of you and so clearly loved just being with you. May you all continue to feel her presence all around you, knowing that you are still at the center of her world.

We fondly remember so many wonderful conversations, hugs and meals together during the Memorial weekend conferences. There was also such cherished time together when our group and family came down from FBT in central NY to DC. Your home was our home and the Ross/Ajaj family has felt like family from day one. We look forward to meeting up again one glorious day for eternity together when we're all Home with the Lord. We miss you Lila, but we're joyful that you're there now celebrating with our Savior! Much love and prayer for your family and friends...may they know God's comfort and peace.

Lila was the friend I didn’t know I needed. We both arrived at Drew Elementary in 2011—when my first son joined her classroom. What won me over was Lila’s immediate warmth and familiarity. She spoke to me about my child like an aunt who had a real stake in his upbringing. I didn’t have that in my life at the time—my mother was oceans away, I had no aunts, no mother-in-law—and Lila threw me a lifeline. She quickly became a fixture in my life. She treated my other three sons, all of whom had the privilege of being taught by her, with the same love and care.

Soon, our conversations about my children became conversations about my life, and then long talks filled with laughter and mutual sharing. Lila became more than a friend—she became family. And through her, I met and grew close to Lisa, another forever friend and something else I’m forever grateful to her for.  Through them both I grew to know and care about their family. The blessing of meeting Lila expanded my circle of friends & family wonderfully.

Lila never minced words with me, but she was always kind. She had a way of delivering the truth I needed to hear—honestly, but never harshly. She laughed often and had a radiant smile—so beautiful and distinct that when I saw her son Jesse, whom I had never met, for the first time among 35,000 strangers at a convention, I knew immediately who he was, because he shares that same beautiful smile.

I’m still in disbelief that I won’t get to laugh with her again. I can see her classroom door from my desk in the office, and I find myself expecting to see her walking out of it, gardening supplies and students in tow, heading towards the courtyard. I don’t know if that will ever fade into reality, but I also don’t know if I want it to. I’m doing what I can to keep her close—to keep her memory alive in my heart. (I’ve already added her favorite BTS songs to my playlist.)

I will be forever grateful and feel forever blessed for having had her in my life.

Ms. Ross was a great teacher. She always talked about how learning was not about solving but exploring.  She didn't just do the curriculum but did things that were a little different and it really helped us learn. She also was very kind. I will miss her so much and am glad I had for a little over a year as my teacher

To my dearest Lila, you will be missed tremendously.  I still can't believe you are gone. The numerous times I've been in your classroom walking around and shooting the breeze, as we say, now I can't even walk down the hallway. Your absence is strongly present. I will miss our times spent at dinners and in your hot tub coupled with numerous conversations on various topics and days spent at the pool at Lisa's house. You are my "sista" from another mother, as we say in the African American community!  To Dana and Jessee, you were dearly loved by your mom and you made her very proud! To Jeff, you were the best husband of all to her and I thank you for that. Im happy I got a chance to be involved in your family's lives!  It meant alot. As I watched the memorial live,  it was so nice hearing all the wonderful stories!  I love all of you, Dana, Jessie, Jeff,  Lisa and her kiddos, mom, and Julio! Condolences to you and I wish you peace during this difficult time!

When I remember Ms.Ross, I remember her as an amazing person.  When I first came to Montessori, I looked up to her. I thought she was an awesome person. I hoped she could be my teacher ever since I started there.  I did get to have Ms. Ross for a couple moths and when I knew her I thought she was so cool. Ms. Ross taught us about God and His spot in the world. To make it all more amazing she didn't use His name. Ms. Ross really expanded my understanding of the classroom, my work, and my religion. MS. Ross made me as if i belonged.

Lila was my friend, colleague, and teacher to my son Dylan. To say Lila was a beautiful person is an understatement. She was kind, compassionate, empathetic, generous, thoughtful, and loving. Lila was one of those rare bright lights in the world who could always find something  positive  in  difficult situations or events. She was never too busy to take a moment to chat with you and catch up. When she asked you, “how are you doing?” She  was  truly asking because she did care to know. 
That same love and care extended to the natural world outside. Lila  shared her love of monarch butterflies  and the earth with her students and colleagues alike.  She also shared her love of poetry with my son Dylan, who upon meeting her at the tender age of two and a half, proudly let her know that his favorite poet was Edgar Allan Poe. Upon that proclamation, their bond was sealed forevermore. 
Much love to Jeff, Jesse, Dana, Lisa, Julio, Dina, Miqueas and Jean. 
Love you Lila, forevermore! ❤️

: i remember when i made paper boxes for her. And she would always help me with my math. she made me feel like i belonged here

Heavenly Father, in the mighty name of JESUS, I lift up Mrs. Hernandez, her mother, her brother, her sister’s husband, children, and their entire family. Lord JESUS, have compassion on them. You see their pain, sorrow, and every burden they carry. Comfort them in this season of remembrance. Take them up under Your wings and hold them close in Your loving arms. Fill every void in their hearts with Your presence, peace, and strength.

JESUS, You are their Comforter, their peace in the storm, their present help in time of need. Let Your grace sustain them through every hour, day, and year ahead. Strengthen their faith so it may be found unto praise and glory at Your appearing. Let nothing separate them from Your love. Be their bridge over troubled waters; lift them above every trial and give them total victory through Christ JESUS.

Lord, renew their strength like the eagle’s; help them rise above grief and walk in Your power. Guard their hearts and minds from the enemy’s attacks. Surround them with Your love, peace, mercy, and goodness. Let Your light shine upon them in every dark place, and cause their enemies to flee.

Bless this family abundantly, LORD. Let Your glory and anointing rest upon them. Supply their every need, guide them, protect them, and let Your presence dwell richly among them. JESUS, You are faithful that promised, and You will never let them go. We give You all praise, honor, and glory for what You have done, what You are doing, and what You will do.

In JESUS’ holy and powerful name we pray, Amen! Hallelujah!

Hold on to JESUS, for He will never let you go!
We love you all with the love of JESUS! 
From Kevin and Teesha Miles

To Lila's whole family, and especially Lisa, Julio, Miqueas, and Dina - 
We are so profoundly sorry for your loss. Our family will miss Lila so much, and we're so grateful we had the privilege of knowing her for the last seven years at MPSA, where she taught each of our three kids.
I will never forget the first time we met Lila, when our son joined her class in 2018. That year she happened to have a LOT of rambunctious boys (including ours). I was so impressed that she could handle that wild, crazy, and hilarious crew. I never saw her lose her patience or raise her voice. Years afterwards, she told me that she would sometimes send our son over to Lisa's class just to get a little break from his endless activity. I loved that. She knew exactly how to handle every kid, meet them where they were, and help them thrive and grow. She and her sister Lisa always partnered up beautifully, and she and Ms. Peake were such an amazing team together, too. Her classroom was always full of happy, busy, purposeful kids.
Over the years as I volunteered in the gardens, I got to spend time with Lila and her classes most weeks. She always had cool projects going, from composting to planting tulips to the milkweed garden. She always had fascinating updates to share about her two kids, Jesse and Dana. Lila was smart as well as wise, had a fantastic sense of humor and dry wit, and was a truly kind soul.
This year was to be our youngest child’s last year with Ms. Ross. We were just getting into the rhythm of the year. On the last day I saw Ms. Ross, in mid-September, there was one monarch left that still had to be released. So the whole class went out, and she gently set it on a child's finger. As the kids watched, she calmly reminded them to wait for the sun to warm the butterfly's wings. After a few minutes, we all watched it flutter up into the air and into the sky. I will always think of that moment when I think of her – and I will always be grateful for all my family learned from her.

Lila was a kind colleague and gentle, loving teacher. May she rest in peace.

Lila was an amazing person. I have known her for a very long time, since she started working at Drew.  At MPSA in the mornings, many a times we walked in the building at the same time.  I miss visiting with her in the mornings.  We both shared conversations, also about our children.  
One thing I will never forget is her delicious hummus.  It is the best hummus one can have.  She shared the recipe with me and I have been making it since then.  
Her wonderful memories will stay with me forever.
May her Precious Soul Rest in Peace!!!

Aquinas Montessori School: the annual Spanish “Ofrenda” is a lovely collaboration begun by our Spanish teacher in honor of Dia de Los Muertos for Halloween. . This year we offer shared memories of our beautiful colleague, Lila Ross. Her photos are especially perfect among the traditional Monarch butterflies depicted in this Spanish tradition. She helped launch our live Monarch butterfly studies which continue every year each September. We raise caterpillars from eggs through chrysalis to butterfly emergence, tag them, and release them. Her work lives on :)
I have fond memories going “cat” hunting (Monarch caterpillars) in milkweed patches to gather enough critters so each classroom could start the school year with a habitat. Such fun! She was always an inspiration! 
Much love and hugs to Jeff, Jesse, and Dana

Lila was one of my first friends in Arlington. I remember meeting her at Montessori training. We were introducing ourselves when I realized I would be at Drew with her. Lila showed me all of the best restaurants in the area and always made me feel welcome. I am grateful for all she taught me about animals, bulbs, and of course Monarchs!  It isn’t the same without her here, but that is a testament to what she brought to my life and our community. My love and prayers are with you all ❤️

Becca Rubilotta

My deep condolences to Jane, Lisa and Lila’s husband and her children  Jesse and Dana. 

I’m shocked and saddened with the passing of Lila. I couldn’t believe she left too early. I saw her in her dad passing ceremony and she was encouraging me to write a note on the website which I already did and now I’m writing about her! I know Lila 17 years ago from the Arab Baptist Church in Washington DC, It’s sad to lose a great and pleasant lady full of warm welcoming. 
I will miss her. 
RIP

May

Mrs. Lila was the gentle heart of our busy Montessori school. Her classroom wasn’t just a room; it was a sanctuary defined by her remarkable kindness and calm presence. She truly was an amazing soul whose spirit instantly soothed anyone who walked through the door.
​I used to bring one of my students to her room for a quick moment of therapeutic calm. Mrs. Lila treated these visits as vital moments of care, always understanding the deeper need. She never turned away a student who needed a break by petting the bunny Spring. Her easy welcome made you feel safe and seen.
​Our friendship deepened unexpectedly when she heard me speak a casual Arabic phrase, from that day on, our short chats became sweet, private exchanges in our shared language. It was a beautiful, secret connection, that felt like home right in the middle of the school day.
​When she passed, the loss of her radiant presence hit us hard, and the school fell quiet.
​But her spirit hasn't left. That enduring feeling of calm and the unconditional welcome she offered remain in the atmosphere she created. Mrs. Lila’s kindness lives on, ensuring a small piece of home will always be found right here. ❤️

It was Lila that made MPSA the Monarchs we are today. She brought the Monarch Network professional development to us in the fall of 2019 when we moved from Drew to MPSA. It was because of her leadership and enthusiasm that all MPSA students learned about the lifecycle and migration of the Monarch butterflies. Her enthusiasm for outdoor learning and celebration of Earth Day will always be a tribute to her.  Wishing her family lots of love during this loss and know that you will always have a home at MPSA and we will continue to celebrate her legacy during our annual Monarch Celebration.

Lila is one of the women I will always admire for the love she had for her family first. The love she had for nature and her teaching style. I enjoyed hearing her stories and watching how she taught the children in her class. She will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. 

Rest in glory Lila and guide the monarchs home!

The past two years my daughter and I were both so lucky to have Lila in our lives. She was so thoughtful, always sending us handwritten letters when we watched Winter over the school breaks and for the k-drama blanket I gifted to her beginning of last summer. I kept those letters to cherish her kindness, and I’m glad I did. The virtual world we live in made those hand written letters all the more special. Our connection we had with her is tangible. 
I shared with her things in my personal life that went deeper than surface level and I felt so connected with her when she shared a book with me she had loved reading. She was a mother figure to me. I come into the school weekly and it feels empty without her there. I miss her. Winter has helped me so much during this time. I promised Lila I will always care for her. 
I always knew she was stylish and we liked each other’s style. After seeing her photo for the memorial, I had so much style inspiration. 
We love you Lila.

She was a lovely, kind, generous, hospitable, creative woman.  I have many fond memories one being stuck in a storm and having to stay over an extra night in DC with my sister and the Ross’s gladly put us up again; another going to the Bible museum together, or the time Lila and her mom, Jean, and I stayed overnight at the National Cathedral for a retreat (you can’t do that now),  and the exclusive tour of the bell tower, and who can forget Jeff and Lila’s wedding.  She was there for me in the dorm when I got back from Africa sick and needed to bunk in her room at NBC a night or two. And running into Greenwich Village during our school years! And the times the family  came to visit in NJ and we hit the Elvis event at Radio Cit. Too many memories to count! Just always thought there’d be more time to talk again some day.  But we will.

Lila was my daughter Lena's kindergarten teacher at Drew Montessori. I feel so lucky that she, along with teaching assistant Amelia Rosegrant, was Lena's introduction to elementary school. Together these two wrapped Lena and every student in nurturing love, attention, encouragement, and that deep appreciation for curiosity and learning. Lena, now 19 and a sophomore in college, was very sad to hear of Lila's death. She remembers her as "very smart and very kind."  I also worked extensively with Lila and a number of the other Drew Montessori teachers to bring into existence the Reading Garden in the upstairs courtyard and the Art Garden in the lower one. Lila was skilled in gardening as well as science. She took her students outside as much as possible and helped care for the school gardens, which are still thriving. We shared a deep admiration for monarch butterflies and their incredible migration journey.  I will miss her and remember her always, especially whenever I see a butterfly. Sending all my love and strength to her family and friends.

I met Lila when I began attending the May conference of the Arabic Baptist Church. She always welcomed me and my family with love. She is one of the most loving and caring people I have ever met. I thank our Heavenly Father for the gift of Lila and cherish every memory of her. I know I will see her again. My prayers are with her family. 😘

Northeastern Bible College choir.  Such a sweet memory of making music with lifelong friends in 1979.  Lila is in the second row from the front, third in from the right side of the photo.  Next, to the left, is our other roommate Laurie and then me-Gwen Hawk.  Lila was the most beautiful person who loved with her whole heart.  I wish her husband and children to feel comfort knowing her love for them is eternal.

Jeff and Family.  We are so sorry to hear of Lilas sudden passing.  Robert and I are so grateful for our visit with you all last October.  Lila has always been a delight.  You all were so hospitable with your time  inviting us to new dining experiences and the great Frank Lloyd Wright tour.  Memories we will always cherish and never to forget ❤️🙏

I have known Lila and her family for over 50 years.  We grew up together.   Words cannot express the sadness I feel with losing her.   I am forever grateful to have had her in my life…and will treasure all the memories we share.  Sending prayers and hugs to her family.

I am so fortunate to have worked with Lila.  When she moved up to Upper Elementary, I moved into her Primary classroom.  She left all of her wonderful hand made work, which we continue to use to this day.  Her love for science and nature is apparent in the work that she prepared for the children.  My students continue to enjoy learning from the beautiful lessons she lovingly prepared, and then generously left behind when she moved to a different level.  

I will miss Lila's calm, loving, beautiful presence at school.  She was so generous with her time and worked diligently to organize events that brought the entire school together across grade levels.

Washington DC, 2016.  Indonesian Embassy concert with House of Angklung.  Tricia Sumarijanto, Amie Flowers Shakespeare & Lila

Lila with some of her Aquinas fam at NAMTA conference

Laila can never be just a memory — she is still here, alive in every corner of this place.
I see her each morning in the hallway, walking with quiet grace toward the printing room, her soft perfume preceding her, her warm voice filling the air with peace.
I see her sitting at the table, her gentle laughter glowing like sunlight, reaching out her hand to me:
“Here,” she says, “have some figs — I picked them from my father’s house this morning.”

And there she is, in the garden, planting hope with her tender hands, whispering love into the soil until the flowers bloom in obedience to her care.

Laila — breath of spring in our days,
the flowers you planted still sway as if searching for you,
they open each morning to greet you,
saying that your hands are still green,
that your spirit has never left.

Every corner still holds your presence —
your laughter, your touch, your quiet light.
Laila, you are the life that did not depart,
the gentle glow that lingers in all you left behind. 🌸

Condolence 

We are deeply saddened to hear about the loss of Lila Rose. She was a cherished member of the Montessori Public School of Arlington community, known for her kindness, bright spirit, and the joy she brought to those around her. Her presence touched many hearts, and her memory will continue to inspire love and learning among all who knew her.

Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and the entire school community during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the beautiful memories and the lasting impact she left behind.

With heartfelt sympathy,
Rediet Teweldemedhin

My most deepest condolence to the family such a beautiful soul we have lost we will always remember you Lila 💕

Dear Jean,
My heart aches deeply for you in this time of unimaginable loss. Losing your beloved daughter, Lila, suddenly and so soon after your husband is a sorrow few can comprehend. I can only pray that God’s presence surrounds you and brings you comfort when words fall short.
In moments like these, our faith reminds us that death is not the end, but a doorway to eternal life. Pastor Esper Ajaj and Lila now rest safely in the arms of our Lord, free from pain and embraced by His everlasting love. Though your heart is heavy, may you find peace in the promise that one day, you will be reunited with them in God’s glorious kingdom.
The last time I saw young Lila was in 1979, but I was truly blessed to know her and your family. My condolences also go out to Lisa, Philip, Lila’s husband and children.  May Christ’s compassion be your strength, His light your guide, and His love your refuge through these dark days. 
With deepest sympathy and prayers,
Vicky Salloum Abdennur
Ottawa, Canada

OBITUARY

Lila P Ross

April 27, 1960 – October 7, 2025

National Funeral Home & Memorial Park

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