Shirley L. Ross

Shirley Loverne Ross, Age 90, Milwaukie Oregon went to be with the Lord March 20, 2019. Born September 11, 1928 in Billings Montana to Fred and Kathleen Schwab. Shirley was predeceased by her sisters Esther, Grace, and Marion and her brother Freddie. An intelligent, independent woman, ahead of her time, Shirley leaves a legacy of strength to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Shirley served her community as a nurse at Providence hospital for over 35 years. She had a beautiful voice and was honored to sing with the Sweet Adelines for many years. A devoted Christ follower, Shirley was active in her faith community. She enjoyed the old hymns the best, but could occasionally be seen worshiping to the “louder” music. Shirley married Jessie Sampson in 1950 and they raised three children together. Kathryn (David Kelly) King, Greg (Loretta) Sampson, and Bob (Karen) Sampson resulting in 7 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. k After Jessie passed away in 1986, Shirley fell in love again and married Jack Ross. It was a love affair for the ages. Together they traveled the world. Her favorite journey was to the Holy Lands. No matter where Shirley traveled, it was the ocean she enjoyed the most. She was famous for collecting interesting seashells, a love she passed on to her family down three generations. Quiet in large groups, incredibly funny and silly when she was tired, Shirley could never get enough time with her family – which was her greatest joy. One of her favorite family activities was playing cards or games although it was rumored that she cheated because she won so often. Shirley’s super power was sending cards – for every occasion. It didn’t matter how big the family got or how spread out they became, she remembered the important dates and always made the holidays (even the small ones) special. Independent to the end, Shirley lived alone and still drove herself where she needed to go. Memorial Service will be held April 15th at 1pm Valley View Evangelical Church 11501 SE Sunnyside Road, Clackamas, OR 97015. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to her beloved church Valley View Evangelical 503-698-6000 or her granddaughters ministry Open Hands Community Project www.openhandscommunityproject.org