Ray Douglas Gross, lovingly known as “Ross,” age 71, of Big Branch, Kentucky, passed away on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at St. Joseph Hospital in Lexington. Born in Jackson, Kentucky, Ross built a life full of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.
A retired coal truck driver and self-employed worker, Ross took great pride in his work and in the friendships he built along the way. Known as the “life of the party,” Ross never met a stranger. His quick wit, love of joking, and lively spirit brought joy to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Ross found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed squirrel hunting, listening to music, and spending time with his cherished big green dump truck. Most of all, he loved his family deeply and treasured every moment spent with them.
He was the son of the late Scott “Doc” Gross and Eliza Spicer Gross. In addition to his parents, Ross was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Gross Combs; his sister, Faye Miller; and his brothers, Robert “Bruce” Gross and Leroy Gross.
Ross is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Kathleen Watts Gross; his daughter, Michelle and husband Ronnie Gross; and his son-in-law, Kelvin Combs. He is also survived by his sisters, Alma Jean and husband Harlos Brewer, Joyce Ann and husband Eddie Hensley; his brother, Wendell Gross; and his cherished grandsons, Hagen Kelvin Combs and Ryland Ray Gross. He held a special bond with his nephews Todd Brewer, Scott Gross, and B.J. Gross, who were dear to his heart.
Ross leaves behind a host of family and friends who will miss his laughter, his stories, and the joy he brought into every room. His presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the memories of all who loved him.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at the Breathitt Funeral Home Chapel from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Funeral services will be conducted on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the chapel with Tim Miller officiating. Burial will follow in the Haddix Cemetery at Haddix.
Serving as pallbearers will be Chris Hollon, Todd Brewer, Ov Watts Jr., Eddie Johnson, Travis Noble, and Jody Howard. Honorary pallbearers will include Bob Hollon, Arlin Hudson, Ike Graham, Hubert Hollon, Sammy Franks, Harlos Brewer, Kenny Tyra, and Robert Hurst.
