Gloria and Charlie Ross were married for 57 years. Gloria died last month.
COURTESY ROSS FAMILY
Gloria Lee Ross, 78, died peacefully surrounded by family Monday, malady May 4, in Vancouver, Wash.
Gloria L. Tennyson was born in St. Louis, Mo., to Homer and Helen (Ballance) Tennyson on Oct. 7, 1936. After the unexpected death of her parents, Gloria and her sister were reared by their uncle and aunt, Mike and Essie Pizzani, who preceded her in death. She attended Roosevelt High School in St. Louis and graduated from business college shortly thereafter.
Gloria married Charles Ross on Aug. 9, 1958 in St. Louis, Mo. In October of 1970, the family moved with their daughters to Portland, where Gloria was an active partner in her husband’s ministry of 29 years at Parkrose Community United Church of Christ. Gloria was a secretary for Portland Public Schools for many years, retiring from Jefferson High School in 1999, and was a church secretary for Bethel United Church of Christ in Beaverton prior to her work at PPS. Gloria was active in various community organizations and was a vigorous supporter of Parkrose Little League as well as the Broadmoor Ladies Golf League.
Gloria loved life and was well-loved by those who knew her. Her ability to laugh and love through the complexities of life was enormous. She had a wonderful sense of humor and was deeply devoted to her family. Gloria always had a kind and supportive word for family and friends, and she was always quick to praise and acknowledge their accomplishments. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and found being their Nana was a highlight of her life.
Gloria is survived by her husband of 57 years, Charlie; daughters Tammy Ross and Valerie Barnett; grandchildren Anthony, Tyler, Angus, Emerson, Jennifer and James Jr.; four nieces and a nephew; lifelong friends Bette and Gay; and many much-loved extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her aunt and uncle, her sister, Mary Louise (Tennyson) Strubinger, and brother, David Tennyson.
A celebration of life has been held. While Gloria loved flowers, the family suggests making a donation to Vancouver UCC, Parkrose UCC or Snowcap Community Charities in her memory.
