Born in Detroit, Michigan, Jack was the eldest of eight children born to the late Mary Ann Spicer and Jack Arland Ross. Jack was preceded in death by his brother – Richard Ross and sister - Judy Lubbock.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Brenda Ross, his son Jack P. Ross II (Paula Ross), two daughters – Laurie Doeble (Lance Doeble) and Rhonda Ross (John Tanner), grandchildren – Kristan Leann, Gavin Towles, Gage Towles, Haylee Ross, Anna Kate Ross, great granddaughter – M. Leann, “adopted” son Andres Rico Salazar, four sisters – Paula Hill, Debbie Ross, Pamela Ross, MaryAnn Ross, brother – Larry Ross and multiple relatives and caring friends.
Affectionately known as “Gunny,” Jack proudly served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam era. In 1964, while stationed in El Toro, California at the Marine Corps Air Station, he met his wife Brenda who was also stationed there. During his military career he received several honors and commendations. As a Career Recruiter, Gunny demonstrated his strong leadership ability, communication style, and work ethic and was recognized as the Top Recruiter. Gunny was Honorably Discharged in 1971 after sustaining multiple service-connected injuries.
Following his military career, he continued to answer the call of the Lord and joined the Ministry where he pioneered four churches and was selected as pastor of the year in the State of Alabama. He obtained a Doctor of Divinity in 1986.
Being a Marine was only part of who Gunny was. The strength, determination, loyalty, and discipline that come with being a Marine were qualities he carried throughout his life. But beyond the uniform and the title, his greatest pride was his family that he loved so dearly. Family and brotherhood weren’t something he talked about; it was how he lived. He was a man who made time for those he loved, offered guidance when it was needed, and stood strong for his family through life's challenges. He was one of those people who held everyone together.
A public visitation will be held on Monday, November 16, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Kays-Ponger & Uselton Funeral Home, Punta Gorda Chapel. A formal service will be held on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. followed by the Marine Corps funeral honors ceremony at 12:00 p.m. at Royal Palm Memorial Gardens where Jack “Gunny” Ross will be laid to rest.
Semper Fi, Gunny. Your watch may be over, but your love and legacy will never leave us. Thank you for loving your family so completely and thank you for being our protector, advisor, our rock, and loving husband and father. You will be missed, until we meet again.
