John Adam Ross, 72, North Little Rock, born April 5, 1944, passed away May 5, 2016. John was preceded in death by parents, Charles and Henrietta Ross; sister, Diane and aunts, Flora and Lillie Ross.
Growing up around Lamar Porter Field and Travelers Field, John had dreams of one day being an umpire in the “BIG” Leagues. He began to umpire baseball games while in high school. After years of working Pony League, Legion and College games around the state, John’s dream was fulfilled when he was invited to Professional Umpire School.
After his career in baseball, John worked all across the United States in Sales and Sales Management.
John was known as a teller of tales. He was quick to share a story from his colorful past (even if you had heard it many times before). He kept his mind sharp with his love of reading and crossword puzzles.
Memorials may be made to Lamar Porter Field.
Cremation entrusted to A Natural State Funeral Service, Jacksonville AR, 501-982-3400.
8 Comments
Classmate 1962 Little Rock Central High School
Great umpire. John had a tremendous influence on and shaped many young men’s lives. May you Rest In Peace John Ross.
For me and all my Lamar Porter friends, Johnwas one of they many men who made baseball the game we love. Memories of John, Borys Malczyski, Norman Callaway to name a few are very precious things. He will be missed
Played on Litle League team with John. RIP John
John was a good friend mine and my two sisters. He and I coached together at Curran Conway, ( Colonial Bread) in 1973. In sports he was cut from the same mold as Terry and Dennis Masters. He sure knew his baseball.Boy did I love that guy! He could make a lemon smile. God rest your soul John.
John loved baseball and especially Lamar Porter Field. He always had a smile on his face when at Porter Field doing what he loved to do behind home plate. There are a lot of grown up little boys who looked up to John!
Great guy and great ump. I grew up across the street from Porter field and John was always there calling balls and strikes. His voice was unique amount umpires, and the number of kids he influenced are way to many to mention. He kicked me out of a game one night for arguing with him. I deserved it and never argued with a person of authority since. RIP John.
He was a Good American.
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