William Lee Ross

William Lee Ross passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025 at the Searstone Retirement Community in Cary, NC. Born on September 6, 1935, he was the beloved son of Louise Tatum Ross Smith and Thomas Fleming Ross. He graduated from Stuart High School and pursued a degree in Accounting from Virginia Tech (‘58).

Following his graduation, Mr. Ross honorably served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1958 to 1961. His professional life included roles at Stanley Furniture in Stanleytown, Virginia, and later with Mead Corporation in Dayton, Ohio. He also successfully owned and operated a Jackson Hewitt tax franchise in Columbia, South Carolina.

In 1963, William married Margaret (Peggy) Taylor. Together, they built a family and a wonderful life. Upon retirement, he and Peggy relocated to the Sun City community in Bluffton, South Carolina, where he enjoyed 19 years of retirement living.

William will be deeply missed by his loving family. He is survived by his three children and their spouses; Susan Gent (Mark), Frank Ross (Lisa), Mary Peoples (Allen). He was also a cherished grandfather to four grandchildren: Anna Ross-Browning (Brian), Benjamin Peoples, Jessica Peoples, and Alexandra Gent.