Johnie William Ross

Johnie William Ross, 97, of Malvern, died Sunday, May 17, 2015. He was born in Lono, Arkansas, April 9, 1918 to George Sterling and Dora Alice Nutt Ross. He is predeceased by his parents; his wife of 65 years, Hazel Roberta Lambert Ross; sons George Ross, Jack Ross, Doyce "Bo" Ross and Roger Ross; and sisters, Hettie Ross Griggs and Hester Ross Griggs. Johnie held many jobs throughout his lifetime, going to work at the age of 13 to support his mother and sisters after his father's untimely death in a school bus accident. He was a truck driver, worked for Williams Brothers Pipeline for many years, and was a foreman for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System. He and his wife Hazel operated a gas station in Arkadelphia and worked as night security guards for the Friendship Rock Quarry. He enjoyed camping, fishing, and had a special place in his heart for children and animals. Survivors include his sons, Jim "Tub" Ross of Malvern, and J.R. (Sharon) Ross of Conway; a daughter-in-law, Sandra "Tootie" Ross of Rogers; 18 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren; special friend, Ola Faye "Honey" Lane and her son Steve and family; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 20 from 12-2 p.m. at Regency Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 20 at 2 p.m. at Regency Funeral Home, with Brother Vance Nutt officiating. Burial will follow at Philippi Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Christopher Ross, Junior Ross, Lucky Ross, Tim Ross, Neil Ross, Dylan Briner, Sean Lane and Matt Marrs. Memorials can be made to the Philippi Cemetery Fund, c/o Brenda Lambert, 941 Birch Drive, Bismarck, AR 71929. A special thanks to Arbor Oaks Nursing and Rehab Nurses and Staff. Arrangements are by Regency Funeral Home. You may sign the guest book at www.regencyfuneralhome.com.