William Vincent Ross, 79, of Franklin, passed away Saturday, December 24, 2011.

Born and raised in the Astoria section of Queens, NY, he was the son of the late William Ross and Sarah McKenna Ross. William, known as Bill to his friends, was scouted in his youth to play baseball for the NY Giants by Hall of Famer, Carl Hubbell. After injuring his arm, Bill joined the US Navy during the Korean War. His experience working on aircraft carriers led to a career with the airlines. He was first a mechanic for Northwest and then as a flight engineer with National and Pan Am airlines, providing him the opportunity to travel the world. In his spare time Bill combined his varied interests with his entrepreneurial drive. He designed and built two family homes, obtained his private pilot license, and developed several business enterprises. His hobbies included art, reading, and rock hounding. He was a member of St. Francis Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Gloria Porter Ross; five children, Virginia Starr Ross and husband Frank Schaefer of Westfield, NJ; William Ross and wife Julie McDonald of Santa Barbara, CA; Erin Lee Ross Crockett and husband Huel of Frisco, TX; Thomas Edward Ross and wife Danielle M. of Arroyo Grande, CA; and Bonnie “Nani” K. Ross and fiancé Scott Amona of Honolulu, HI; two brothers, James Francis Ross and wife Teresa of Melville, NY and John Ross and wife Mary of Centereach, NY; sister, Eileen Ross Ellicott of Phoenix, AZ; special cousin, Maureen McKenna of Port Jefferson, NY; six grandchildren, Jeremiah, Aimee, Alexander, Alexis, Taylor and Charlotte; two great-grandchildren, Gavin and Landon; and a large number of nieces and nephews.

Bill cherished his family and the many friendships he cultivated over his lifetime. He will be fondly remembered for his intellectual curiosity, Irish “gift of the gab,” generosity of spirit, and especially to his children for being “the best cook in the Chinese Navy.”

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers a donation be made to one’s favorite charity.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 11, at St. Francis Catholic Church. Father Tien Duong will officiate.

Macon Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Online condolences can be made at maconfuneralhome.com.

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