William Price Ross

William Price Ross, affectionately known as Willie, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026 at the age of 61.

Born in Longmeadow, Massachusetts, Willie, who was born deaf, entered the world at a time when opportunities for deaf children were limited. At a very young age, Willie’s parents, Gene and Bobby, together with other dedicated families, helped establish what became the Willie Ross School for the Deaf—a legacy that continues to serve deaf children and their families today.

As Willie grew, it became clear that his life’s journey would be unlike most. He faced significant physical and developmental challenges that required lifelong residential care, but he was surrounded by an extraordinary community of family members, caregivers, teachers, medical professionals, and friends who enriched his life with compassion, dignity, stability, and love. Their patience, kindness, and unwavering commitment allowed him to experience birthdays, holidays, travel, friendships, and the joys that make life meaningful. His family will be forever grateful to each of them.

Willie is survived by his brothers, extended family, and the many people whose lives became intertwined with his own over six decades.

The family extends its heartfelt appreciation to the very special caregivers and the physicians, nurses, therapists, educators, and advocates whose compassion and devotion helped shape Willie’s life.