Mary Elizabeth Ross

Mary Elizabeth Ross, 87, of Grand Rapids, MI passed away peacefully into God’s eternal care April 13, 2024. She was born November 4, 1936 in Roseville, MI to Roy and Mabel Hyde. She received her early education from Yale High School and earned a BA at Michigan State University, studying English, education, and music. There she developed her heart and skill for teaching, which was a gift she shared throughout her life. She met her former husband Charles Ross while they performed in the Michigan State Marching Band. Mary and Charles had three children: David, John, and Sara. Mary felt God’s greatest blessing to her was her children.

Mary was a proud cancer survivor of 56 years, beating it on four separate occasions. She was instrumental in starting and facilitating colon cancer rehab support groups around the state. She felt strongly called to this support work and found it had a significant impact helping other survivors overcome the stigma and isolation of a colon cancer experience to live life fully again. Mary’s professions included teaching English and other subjects in the Battle Creek area schools, insurance claims adjusting for Transamerica Insurance Co., and being a church organist.

She was a lifelong person of faith, and most recently a member of the First United Methodist Church of Grand Rapids. She participated with and accompanied the church services offered at her senior residences. Simply put: Mary enjoyed all things musical! She participated throughout her life with a wide variety of volunteer musical groups that shared the joy of music with the broader community, and most recently was a part of The Calder City Concert Band and the West Michigan Flute Orchestra.

She also enjoyed travel and felt blessed to have the opportunity to see England, Hawaii, and Mexico with choirs, friends, and family. She especially cherished her summer week each year at Lake Chautauqua Institution in Chautauqua, NY, a place where her love of learning, music, engaging important topics, meeting new people, and worship all came together in one beautiful natural setting.

Mary is predeceased by her brothers Jim Hyde, John Hyde, and Dennis Hyde. Sisters-in-law Nancy Hyde and Joan Hyde. She is survived by her brother Robert Hyde, three children: David Ross (Kim), John Ross (Adrienne); Sara Rossigg (Jenei); six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service in honor of Mary will be held at Reyers North Valley Chapel (2815 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI) on May 1, 2024; Rev. Stephen Luchies will officiate. Visitation will happen from 11 am to 1 pm; the memorial service will begin at 1 pm. Memorial donations in her honor may be made to the Grand Rapids Calder City Concert Band c/o 862 Camellia Lane, Wayland, MI 49348.