Ross Booth Reifel

Born on January 18, 1970 in Houston, Texas, to Mike and Rosemary Reifel, Ross grew up in Houston as an 8th generation Houstonian, attending Memorial High School. After graduation, he attended the University of Mississippi and the University of Houston, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in Finance. Ross worked in finance for 25 years, ultimately earning his Master’s in Finance at Southern Methodist University. Ross’ intellect, always leading him to explore new scholastic challenges, spurred him to attend the South Texas College of Law, graduating in 2012 as a Doctor of Jurisprudence.

Beyond his professional success, Ross was an avid athlete, proudly playing as a walk-on football player at Ole Miss. A man of immense discipline and heart, he holds 3rd-degree black belts in both Taekwondo and Hapkido, completed multiple triathlons, and ran in two Houston Marathons. Professionally, he was a dedicated advocate who served in the 19th District of the Federal Courts. After owning his own law firm for 11 years, he joined Dunham & Jones, P.C. as a full-time defense lawyer. He was known for his compassion, often taking on clients who were experiencing financial difficulties.

While Ross took great satisfaction in all of his previous professional and personal accomplishments, those clearly paled in comparison to the immense pride he had for his three sons, Jackson, Alexander, and Nicholas. Ross was a devoted father who traveled extensively across the U.S. to support Jack and Nick’s baseball careers. He also found profound joy in sharing Alec’s hobbies as well, whether it was building Legos, watching movies, or practicing Taekwondo together. It is difficult to describe the incredible impact Ross has had on his sons. He has been a constant source of guidance, teaching them the importance of responsibility and dedication in everything they do. Beyond these values, he has also imparted a sense of humor and a unique strength that has shaped them into the people they are today.

Above all, Ross cherished the life he built with his wife, Kelly. Together they enjoyed supporting their three sons in all of their activities, from school events and sports to life’s everyday milestones. They loved spending time together as a family, whether enjoying dinners out, watching movies, traveling for tournaments or creating lasting memories on their recent trip to Universal. Their 29 years of marriage was built on love, partnership, and a deep devotion to their family, which remained the center of Ross’ life.

Ross is survived by his wife, Kelly Reifel; his sons, Jackson Connor, Alexander Julius, and Nicholas Wade; His sister, Alixe Knight (Darrell Knight) and nephew Marshall; His brother, Mitch Reifel (Georgette Blair) and niece Daria; Ross is also survived by numerous loving nieces, great-nieces, and great-nephews as well as his beloved pets Rocky, Rosie, Rusty, Luke, Leia, Vader, Chewy and Kitty-Kitty.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mike and Rosemary Reifel; his paternal grandparents Alexander and Louie Reifel; and maternal grandparents Harry Hayes Sr. and Myrtle Booth Hayes.

Those who knew Ross will remember him for his intelligence, strength, and unwavering devotion to his family. He was a protective and caring man with a legendary sense of humor and a stubborn streak that was matched only by his generosity.

A visitation will be held at Settegast-Kopf in the Morrow Chapel at 5 PM - 8 PM on Friday June 12, 2026. The following day, there will be a Funeral at Settegast-Kopf in the Morrow Chapel at 10 AM led by Pastor Terrace.

The family would like to thank all of Ross’ loved ones for their love and support during this difficult time.

“You’ll never meet anyone that makes you laugh the way I do.” — Ross Reifel