Walter Patterson Ross

Walter Patterson Ross, was born in Slaughter Neck, Delaware, on October 16, 1940, to the late James Emory Ross and Dorothy Ross Wilcox. Although he transitioned to be with the one he loved the most, he will truly be missed. God called him home on May 17, 2020, at the age of 79. Walter “Walt”, went to school in Slaughter Neck, Delaware, and later attended Benjamin Banneker School, in Milford, Delaware. He went into the military and after he came home, he went to work and spent the majority of his working years at Sea Watch International LTD before he retired. Walter accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, and became a member of Milford Revival Center. When Milford Revival Center closed down, he would frequented Mt. Moriah in Greenwood, Delaware. Above all else, Walt loved the Lord, so much so that he was known as “Shouting John” in church. Everyone that knew Walt knew that every time he saw you he would have words of encouragement for you from the Lord. Walter loved spending time with his family, sharing memories and exchanging laughter. Everyone also knew not to leave your dishes with Walt because he would boil them down to nothing. In his spare time he enjoyed watching wrestling. Walt was known for taking pride in his appearance, God first, hair second. After finally retiring his afro wig, Walt always made sure his hair was molded into the perfect afro. You could always smell him coming from a mile away, Walt would use his cologne, your cologne and anyone else’s he could find to make sure he always smelled good. Walter was always kind, caring and welcoming to anyone that he encountered. Any and every one was welcome into his home. He took pride in providing his home as a place to stay for anyone in need. We were all so blessed to have Walt in our lives as a loving husband, father, brother, uncle and friend. He will truly be missed by so many. Walter was preceded in death by his father, James E. Ross; mother, Dorothy Ross Wilcox; son, Darius Ross; daughter, Lenay Harrison; and brother, Robert Ross. He is survived by his wife, Mary M. Ross; one daughter, Valerie Riley; two sons, Anthony Riley and Walter Riley (Sheryl); four brothers, James Ross, Wyoming Ross, Isaac Ross (Laverne) and Larry Ross; six sisters, Sarah Smith, Margareta McDonald, Glenda Houston (Jerome), Carolyn Carrington (Joseph), Mary E. Ross and Theresa Ross; his granddaughter and caretaker, Takia Riley; six additional grandchildren; three great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Walter Patterson Ross

October 16, 1940 - May 17, 2020