John Ross
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John Ross, of DeSoto, Texas, transitioned into eternal life on Thursday, October 18, 2019 at a local hospital. He was born on November 7, 1938 in Holy Trinity, Alabama. Moving to Savannah, Georgia at an early age, he graduated from Alfred E. Beach High School. He then enlisted in the United States Armed Services, retiring from the Air force after twenty-one years of active duty. Additionally, he earned a bachelor's and master's degrees from Ohio St. University, and a Law degree from La Salle University, Chicago, Illinois.
John Ross extended his career with employment at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission serving thirty-five years as an Investigator, then Mediator. Upon retirement from EEOC he entered private practice operating Ma'at Mediation and Arbitration Services, where he worked until August 2019.
His passion for civil rights and social justice led him to leadership with the N.A.A.C.P, as past president of the White Rock Branch. He also taught African/African American History for many years. In September 1991, John was enstooled as a Chief by Ghanaian King Nana Lartey Kwaku Esi II, and given the name Nana Ansah Sasraku I, and title Asofohene, which means "protector of the people".
His life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 24, 2019 at Eternal Rest Funeral Home Chapel, 1400 N. Hampton Road, DeSoto, Texas 75115. The service will be officiated by Dr. Henry L. Masters. Interment: DFW National Cemetery.
Visitation (Family will be present): Wednesday, October 23, 2019 from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Eternal Rest Funeral Home, 1400 N. Hampton Road, Desoto, Texas 75115.
Mr. Ross was preceded in death by his stepfather and mother, Rev. Thomas Greene and Clara; sister, Veronica (Ronnie) Ross; son-in-law Kevin Lawrence; and a host of other ancestors.
He leaves to cherish his memory, wife Lanetta Ross; daughters, Jacy Collins (Darin); and Joyceln Lawrence; grandson, Josh Walls; and a host of extended family and friends.