Mary Ann Ross

Mary Ann Ross, beloved mom, grandma, sister, cousin, and friend died on Aug 7, 2021. She lived life on her own terms with humor, independence, and tenacity. While her last year of life was difficult after the death of her husband, John Ross, the love and support of family and friends made it possible for her to stay in her beloved home to the end. Mary Ann was born in her mema's house in Chambersville, Arkansas, on November 4, 1943. She was raised in Arkansas and attended several schools as her Daddy was a school superintendent. After attending Arkansas State Teacher's College, she was a school teacher for 2 years in Arkansas then accepted a teaching position in Los Alamos, New Mexico, in 1965. It was in Los Alamos that she met her husband of 52 years, John. Mary Ann and John raised their two children, Jennifer and Nathan, in Los Alamos and enjoyed a rich life with friends and family. She worked for decades for the Los Alamos National Laboratory and retired in 2003. She loved to watch birds at her feeders, a family tradition passed down from her mother and a love shared by her children and grandchildren. Mary Ann was also an avid reader and player of spider solitaire, crossword puzzles, and word games. Known for her a quick wit and amazing memory, she could best anyone at Trivial Pursuit! Mary Ann had perhaps the best years of her life enjoying retirement with John at their home, nicknamed the "Ponderossa", in Dolores, Colorado. They entertained friends and family for many years and were able to create treasured memories with their grandkids, Keegan, Maya, and Drew. Mary Ann is preceded in death by her father and mother, John and Vera Arnold, and her husband, John Ross. She leaves behind her daughter Jennifer Parish and partner Rafael Benitez; son Nathan Ross and wife Alma; grandchildren Keegan Parish, Maya Ross, and Drew Parish; sister Leah Arnold; brother John Arnold and wife Barbara; cousins Lisa and Ronnie Almond and Scott and Jeannie Shallhorn; and many family members and friends. The family will be hosting a combined Celebration of Life for Mary Ann and John in Dolores, CO in the near future. The date will be announced privately for family and friends to attend.