Oct. 30, 2007 — Rupert Ross Sr. has died at 85, leaving a legacy of service to his country, his island and his family.
Ross was born in Frederiksted on Jan. 31, 1922, and spent his life living and working on St. Croix. Gov. John deJongh Jr. sent his personal condolences, along with those of his wife, Cecile, and their family to the Ross family Tuesday, expressing his deepest sympathies for the family and friends of this native son, he said.
Ross was married to the former Octavia Oliver Ross and had nine children, including Rupert W. Ross Jr., Judge Edgar D. Ross, Jewel Ross-Braithewaite, Raymond Oliver Ross, James Lincoln Ross, the late Randall Ross, Janice Lorraine Ross Grant, Judyann Ross and Edward Paul Ross.
During his long career, Ross worked at the V.I. Corporation (VICO), the old sugar factory, and then moved on to Harvey Alumina, later retiring from Martin Marietta. Ross was a veteran of World War II, having served in 1945, and was honorably discharged in January 1946. As an advocate for economic, social and political issues on St. Croix, especially for Frederiksted, Ross was a pillar of the community who engaged those around him to bring progress and hope to the people of St. Croix and the Virgin Islands.
"Rupert was an honorable and accomplished man who contributed greatly to our Virgin Islands community," deJongh said. "We are forever grateful for his energy, his commitment and his passion in advancing this community."
Ross died Sunday.
"He was extremely well-liked in the community, especially in Frederiksted, and he will be greatly missed," the governor said. "During this difficult time, may all who are affected by his passing find strength in knowing that our entire community shares their loss. The Virgin Islands will always hold a special place for Rupert Ross Sr."
Services for the late Rupert Ross Sr. are scheduled for Tues., Nov. 6, at the Fredensberg Moravian Church on Hospital Street in Frederiksted. Viewing begins at 9 a.m. with services at 10 a.m. Internment will be at the Frederiksted cemetery.
A full military detail will mark the service with assistance from the Bromley Berkley American Legion Post 133, of which Ross was an active member, according to his son, Rupert Ross Jr. Condolence letters can be sent to P.O. Box 774 Frederiksted, 00841.
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