Patricia W. Ross
April 16, 1949 ~ May 11, 2023
Colonel Patricia Ross was born on April 16, 1949 to Mr Jacob Wilson, Sr and Mrs. Alberta "Bird" Richardson, in Kannapolis, North Carolina. After a multi-year battle with dementia, Patricia was called home peacefully in her bed, surrounded by family and listening to Luther Vandross, on May 11, 2023 at 7:12pm in her apartment at The Sunrise Assisted Living Facility in Fairfax, Virginia. Her beloved cat, Prince, which brought her great comfort throughout her illness, was by her side.
She had many names, "Mom", "Mommy", "Ma", "Glam-Ma", "Trish", "Aunt Patricia", and "The Colonel." She was loved, respected and admired by all who had the privilege of being graced with her presence. These included, family, friends, soldiers, Generals, patients (young and old alike).
Her faith, her upbringing, her education, and her love of country shaped her into the successful professional she would blossom to be. Patricia graduated from G.W. Carver High School in 1967 and went on to graduate from the University of North Carolina A&T. After graduation she would eventually join the US Army Nurse Corps as a 2nd LT. She served in many duty stations from Korea, San Antonio, Frankfurt, Germany, Fort Bragg, NC, to Tucson AZ. While in Arizona she continued her academic success by earning her Master's Degree from the University of Arizona. Her tour of duty took her back to Frankfurt where she served at the 97th General Hospital, followed by Ft. Meade, MD and finally she retired after a tour of duty in Honolulu, Hawaii at the rank of Full-Bird Colonel. The Colonel spent over 30 years serving her country with dignity, respect, and honor.
Along the way she married US Army rotary wing pilot, Delors Ross, CW5, (Ret) and they shared sons, Shanquito Carpenter and Derek Ross.
After Glam-Ma's military career ended she moved to Jackson, Mississippi where she started her own legal consultant company called Front Line Medical Legal Consulting Services. She was one of the first private contractors to work with Johnny Cochran as he opened a law office in Jackson.There she worked for over 15 years as a legal nurse consultant, advising and testifying on over hundreds of health malpractice litigations. She would review the documents and give her best opinions in open court. She blazed a trail for nurses to continue utilizing their skills outside of the usual scenarios, as well as making sure the standards of care remained exceptionally high for patients.
After medical problems arose in 2017, Aunt Patricia relocated back to the Washington DC metro area to be closer to Derek and his Family, Sarah Ross and their twin daughters, Brooklyn and Riley. There she became known as the Dancing Queen throughout the halls of Sunrise Assisted Living Facility. She would continuously wow the residents and caregivers with her sense of humor and calm, caring demeanor. Sunrise is where she continued to shine her light on anyone that accepted the blessing until she was called home. The family would like to share their appreciation for Sunrise of Fair Oaks, who has also graciously adopted Prince as their own, Capital Care Hospice, and the numerous doctors, nurses and caregivers that assisted her throughout her troubles.
She is survived by her brother Ralph Wilson (Brenda), sister Louise Laney, sister-in-love Celia Wilson, sons Derek (Sarah), Shanquito Carpenter, her granddaughters Brroklyn and Riley, nieces NKenge (Norman and son Donovan) Nneka, and Nashae (Cheyenne, Savannah and Emanuel), and her God-Daughter Maya. Additionally, there are a host of other family including cousins, nephews, great nephews, nieces and great nieces. She also leaves behind a significant other, Mr. Stanley Amos, to reminisce over the love, joys and adventures they've shared together.
Patricia was a beacon of humanity and a role model to all. She was a perfect hybrid of vanity and humility. She was humble enough not to flaunt her success and her power, but she was vain enough to let you know when it was time to recognize just exactly who, The Colonel was.
Relatives and friends are invited to Patricia's Life Celebration at Money and King Funeral Home, 171 W. Maple Ave., Vienna, VA on Sunday, May 21 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Money and King on Monday, May 22 at 11:00am. Interment at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation or The Covenant House, two charities that The Colonel has supported for many years.
She had many names, "Mom", "Mommy", "Ma", "Glam-Ma", "Trish", "Aunt Patricia", and "The Colonel." She was loved, respected and admired by all who had the privilege of being graced with her presence. These included, family, friends, soldiers, Generals, patients (young and old alike).
Her faith, her upbringing, her education, and her love of country shaped her into the successful professional she would blossom to be. Patricia graduated from G.W. Carver High School in 1967 and went on to graduate from the University of North Carolina A&T. After graduation she would eventually join the US Army Nurse Corps as a 2nd LT. She served in many duty stations from Korea, San Antonio, Frankfurt, Germany, Fort Bragg, NC, to Tucson AZ. While in Arizona she continued her academic success by earning her Master's Degree from the University of Arizona. Her tour of duty took her back to Frankfurt where she served at the 97th General Hospital, followed by Ft. Meade, MD and finally she retired after a tour of duty in Honolulu, Hawaii at the rank of Full-Bird Colonel. The Colonel spent over 30 years serving her country with dignity, respect, and honor.
Along the way she married US Army rotary wing pilot, Delors Ross, CW5, (Ret) and they shared sons, Shanquito Carpenter and Derek Ross.
After Glam-Ma's military career ended she moved to Jackson, Mississippi where she started her own legal consultant company called Front Line Medical Legal Consulting Services. She was one of the first private contractors to work with Johnny Cochran as he opened a law office in Jackson.There she worked for over 15 years as a legal nurse consultant, advising and testifying on over hundreds of health malpractice litigations. She would review the documents and give her best opinions in open court. She blazed a trail for nurses to continue utilizing their skills outside of the usual scenarios, as well as making sure the standards of care remained exceptionally high for patients.
After medical problems arose in 2017, Aunt Patricia relocated back to the Washington DC metro area to be closer to Derek and his Family, Sarah Ross and their twin daughters, Brooklyn and Riley. There she became known as the Dancing Queen throughout the halls of Sunrise Assisted Living Facility. She would continuously wow the residents and caregivers with her sense of humor and calm, caring demeanor. Sunrise is where she continued to shine her light on anyone that accepted the blessing until she was called home. The family would like to share their appreciation for Sunrise of Fair Oaks, who has also graciously adopted Prince as their own, Capital Care Hospice, and the numerous doctors, nurses and caregivers that assisted her throughout her troubles.
She is survived by her brother Ralph Wilson (Brenda), sister Louise Laney, sister-in-love Celia Wilson, sons Derek (Sarah), Shanquito Carpenter, her granddaughters Brroklyn and Riley, nieces NKenge (Norman and son Donovan) Nneka, and Nashae (Cheyenne, Savannah and Emanuel), and her God-Daughter Maya. Additionally, there are a host of other family including cousins, nephews, great nephews, nieces and great nieces. She also leaves behind a significant other, Mr. Stanley Amos, to reminisce over the love, joys and adventures they've shared together.
Patricia was a beacon of humanity and a role model to all. She was a perfect hybrid of vanity and humility. She was humble enough not to flaunt her success and her power, but she was vain enough to let you know when it was time to recognize just exactly who, The Colonel was.
Relatives and friends are invited to Patricia's Life Celebration at Money and King Funeral Home, 171 W. Maple Ave., Vienna, VA on Sunday, May 21 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Money and King on Monday, May 22 at 11:00am. Interment at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation or The Covenant House, two charities that The Colonel has supported for many years.
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A candle was lit for the decedent.
Always remember as a girl growing up”PW and PW Penelope Williams and Patricia Wilson,we always ran together when permitted,I will always remember you and keep love in my heart for you, I have so many wonderful memories.Be at peace until we meet again.
Patricia and I were like sisters, we had a good relationship and she is missed. Derek thank you for sharing her with me and pray peace to you and yours. Love you much ❤️❤️
To the Family of COL Patricia Ross,
On behalf of the Army Nurse Corps Association (ANCA), we extend our condolences and heartfelt appreciation for Patricia´s selfless dedication to the US Army, the Army Nurse Corps and our Great Nation.
Once an Army Nurse, Always an Army Nurse.
Our hearts and prayers are with you.
Sincerely,
Donna Smawley, AN, Maj (RET)
ANCA Region 2 Director
region2dir@e-anca.org
Our prayers and condolences goes out to the family of Patricia. Her positive advice that she always shared will live with me forever . Sam/Elaine King
“Pretty, Perfect, Precious, Pat” … the love of my life, my soulmate … I write this, grieved and plagued with a pain, that only the passing of time can heal.
In this state of grief, I am reminded that
“Grief never ends … but it changes. It’s a passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith … It is the price of love.”
For the time God permitted, we happily shared a deep, abiding, unselfish, agape-like love. Our love only grew. It never diminished.
Among our many dreams … we laughed and dreamed of a day when we’d sit on the porch in our rocking chairs, finishing each other’s sentences. Of the many loving experiences God allowed … this one He sovereignly did not permit.
Baby, our time together seems so short. We planned for forever … however, through health and sickness, we were bountifully blessed with a fulfilled and fantastic score and more. Unquestionably, I am truly grateful and extremely fortunate to have shared such amazing times in life with you.
I am both happy and grieved … enormously happy that we crossed paths and journeyed together in life … enormously grieved that I must journey on without you.
It stands to reason, the less you love, the less you grieve … the more you love, the more you grieve. My deep grief is
the price of our deep love.
I shall cherish our precious memories … each step of the journey forward. “Rest well” my love … until we meet again.
Stanley
Pat and I were A&T classmates. After College I ran into Pat at San Antonio Officers Club dancing the night away! Years later I ran into Pat in Md on a boat ride dancing the night away! Dance on Pat-Continue to dance the night away
We met at Fort Bragg NC 1981. We also met at Fort Meade MD .
Patricia and I were classmates and graduates of the 1967 G .W. Carver High Class. She was witty and very smart. We shared some similarities and were distant cousins. She was the Valedictorian and I was Salutatorian . We both served in the military ,Army for her and Air Force for me. Over the years we did share some telephone calls when she had the Consultant business.
To the family your Gem has gone on to eternal rest . I pray God will give you strength and refuge as you live your lives with all the memories of her. To God be the Glory. Ruby Anthony-White, M.D.
“Wilson”, that’s how l greeted her each time we talked. Pat and l became instant friends at A&T in the fall of 1967. We were both nursing majors. Our rooms were directly across the hall from each other. One day while l was singing in my room, she heard me and joined in,blending with perfect harmony. From that day on, we enjoyed singing together, sometimes driving our roommates “crazy”. Deep down we know they loved it. We began singing in Harrison Auditorium at the talent shows. I’ve often been told we “turned them out”.That friendship, along with Jackie and Bessie, better known as “Buddy”, has lasted all of these years. It was always the four us.
Geography meant nothing to Pat and Charli, and at the same time, everything. We got together for A&T Homecomings, beach trips and lots of other visits. I would often join her when she went home to Kannapolis and later in Mississippi. Wouldn’t you know it, the world got smaller for us, as she lived only twenty minutes from one of my family members.
There are so many memories l could recall but l want to respect the time for others to post their reflections.
Derek and all family members, she loved you dearly. Hold tightly to the love and great times you shared. She’ll always be with you and giving you orders,follow them. May God grant you peace and strength.
I’ll close with this. Several years ago Wilson sent me a vase like container with small envelopes that had quotes called Kind Notes. Each day l opened and read one. For some reason l never read the last two until now.
“There are big ships and small ships. But the best ship of all is friendship”-Unknown
The last one reads: “We have been friends together in sunshine and in shade”-Caroline Sheridan Norton
These truly describe my relationship with Pat.
Keep taking charge Wilson and sing and dance for all you have gone on to join. I love you my friend.
Until we harmonize together again,
Charli
Florie Johnson
Trish and I were “Lifetime Friends”; our friendship started in the first grade, and it continued though out our lives. I will always remember her.
A candle was lit for the decedent.
Dear Sister Patricia, the family is sadden and heart broken , my heart aches because you are no longer with us. I know you are in a better place now. I will forever cherish the week we spent at the Jersey Shore. Sister shared secrets, tears and laughter. My love for you is beyond measure. RIP my Sister Patricia, Heavenly Home Eternal.
Your sister Mattie Louise Laney,
A candle was lit for the decedent.
Dear Ross Family, We’re so very sorry for your loss. Our family will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers.
What a Special gift Pat was to this world. Mother, mentor, teacher, senior soldier and leader. She was certainly someone to emulate with her unique personality, special traits and professional success that so many wanted to achieve. We were lucky to know her as a good friend.
Please accept our sincere condolences. Our deepest sympathies go out to the Ross Family. If we can assist with anything, please know we are available.
We look forward to joining you as she is laid to her final rest at Arlington.
Sincerely, The Family of James A. Jr. and Linda D. Morrow
5365 Woodnote Ln, Columbia, MD 21044
Today, I am on my way to Vienna, VA with sympathy and condolence for Derek and his family. I remember Trish as a dear friend and classmate. Trish was very humble was never a pretend or boastful type of individual. So, today will be difficult as I pay final respects to a beautiful soul. RIH Trish.
We wish to pay honor and celebrate the life and memory of a truly remarkable woman –Colonel Patricia Wilson Ross. Pat was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, veteran and true friend. We met in Frankfurt, Germany more than 30 years ago and our families remained in close contact over the years. We shared holiday meals, celebrated good times together and supported each other during sad times.
She was a person so special, full of life and committed to helping others. She will be deeply missed but never to be forgotten. She will always be remembered as a wonderful woman with a beautiful spirit that never changed even as she was faced with many health challenges. We share in your loss. My deepest sympathy is extended to you Derek, Sarah, Brooklyn, Riley, Quito and to your entire family. Praying God gives you strength and comfort each day (Isaiah 49:13). Deborah Bushrod & Family
I love you so much Aunt Patricia, you’re greatly missed. From your niece, Shea.
Pat and I were nursing classmates at NC A&T State University. I rember her as being very, smart, witty and always on point. We had similar interests as she served as an Army nurse full time, while I served in the Army Reserves for many years and we both were members of the National Black Nurses Association. I ran into her a couple of times at nursing conferences. I will always remember her beautiful smile and cheerful personality. RIP Colonel Ross.
I am so sorry to her about Pat’s death and preceding illness.
Pat and I were stationed at Fort Sill/Reynolds Army Hospital together in 1973/74 for less than a year, but kept in touch for several years after. We met up in Washington, DC, for the dedication of the Viet Nam Women’s memorial. It was an extremely emotional day. The last time I saw her was when I visited her at her home in Mississippi and then we lost touch. I have tried over the years to locate her but didn’t look in the right places. Tonight I was going through some old papers and found her retirement ceremony booklet with her Front Line business card. She was so proud of Derek and bragged about him every time we spoke or wrote!