Mr. Vernon Ross of Winston-Salem, NC departed this life on Wednesday, October 31, 2007. He was born in Huntsville, TX June 11, 1917 and was baptized at an early age at Avenue L Baptist Church in Galveston, TX. A graduate of Central High School in Galveston as a young man he worked as a licensed embalmer in his dad's funeral home. He was drafted in the service and upon his honorable discharge he united in marriage with Ethel Ross of Galveston. Vernon and Ethel moved to San Francisco, CA and to this union were born three children, Vernis, Althea, and Vernon Horace. Vernon lived in California for many years and worked for the United States Postal Service as a letter carrier for 37 years. He united in his Christian life with St. Cyprian Episcopal Church in San Francisco until he moved to Winston-Salem, NC to live with his son and daughter-in-law when his health declined. He joined fellowship with United Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church where he served faithfully until he was called home.

He leaves to mourn his son and daughters and beloved family, Vernis Ross, Althea Baker, Vernon and Glynis Ross, and grandchildren, Shakari, Antowne, Vernon Gerard, and Chase Mitchell and many others who called him, dad, grandpa, uncle, or friend.

Funeral services will be held at 1 pm Monday, November 5, 2007 at United Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Prince Raney Rivers officiating. Interment will follow in Forsyth Memorial Park. Family visitation will be held from 12:30 pm until 1 pm Monday at the church.

"Special thanks to Dr. Molnar and staff of the Hematology and Oncology at WFUBMC for their caring spirit."