Deborah Gail Ross, daughter of the late Oris R. and Billie Whitley, was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, on December 4, 1948. She passed away in her sleep at home in Rock Hill, SC, on November 20, 2024.
She is survived by her sisters Patricia A. Ball of Charlotte, NC, Susan Kay Keener of Lexington, SC, nephew David B. Ball, niece Dana K. Ferguson (Rich), grandnephew Ryan Ferguson, and grandniece Danielle Ferguson. She had two loving and supportive brothers-in-law for over 60 years (Ken Ball and Bob Keener) who predeceased her. After graduating from Baylor University, she spent a career in marketing in various states in the USA. She loved cruises and travel and spent a few years in Greece working on a private sailing ship touring the Mediterranean. On her return from Greece, she made her home in Annapolis, MD. After retirement, she moved to Rock Hill, SC, to be closer to her family.
Moving to Rock Hill, SC, she found a second family among her many friends. She commented that a special friend, Debbie Hern, was like another sister. Over the 11 years they knew each other, Deborah and Debbie shared many mutual interests, activities, and lots of laughter.
Deborah loved working with crafts for many years and sharing her creative pieces with her loved ones. She also enjoyed making beautiful flower arrangements for different occasions and giving them to family and friends. She loved animals and worked as a volunteer with several rescue organizations. Her special love was her cats.
Deborah was active in the Newcomers Club of York County and the New Southern Women’s Club, serving as president and board member in both organizations. She always put 110% into her activities, and in recognition of her work with the Newcomers Club, she was awarded the Carol Fields Award for extra achievement as President.
A memorial service will be held on December 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Greene Funeral Home, 2133 Ebenezer Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732. After the service, a reception will be held for friends and family at Nancy Kivett’s home, 4524 Landmark Dr., Rock Hill, SC. Memorials may be made to Best Friends Animal Society.
Condolences may be made at greenefuneralhome.net.