Doug Alan Ross

Douglas Ross went to be with his Lord on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. He was born on December 24, 1954 in Schenectady New York. A graduate of State University College at Cortland, N.Y., Doug was drawn to Virginia by a teaching and coaching position at James River High School in Buchanan, Va.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Don and Lois Ross, and a brother, Daniel Ross. Doug is survived by his wife, Gayle, and three sons, Joshua, Dustin (Sara Ege) and Damon., brothers David (Kathy) Ross, of Ballston Lake N.Y., and Richard (Cathy) Ross of Denver Co., sister Dottie (Paul) Kinzel, of Scotia, N.Y., Brother in law Larry (Brenda) Ford of North Chesterfield, Va., Sister in law, Susie (Richard) Martin, of Roanoke, Va., Sister in law Julie Wilson, of Buchanan, Va., and several nieces and nephews.

Doug earned a Master's degree in School Administration at Radford University and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa Academic Fraternity. He also taught and coached in Roanoke City Schools.

He was a member of Catawba Lodge No. 342 Free and Accepted Masons, and Kiwanis Club of Botetourt County, serving as president 2013-14.

Doug was inducted in the James River High School Knights of Distinction, for community service and the JRHS Athletic Hall of Fame for his coaching career.

He was a member of Fincastle United Methodist Church, serving as Lay Leader. He taught Sunday School for over 40 years. Doug was a part of the group that started the first backpack program in Botetourt County Schools. His family, friends and his God were his passion and focus of his life.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Fincastle United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 63, Fincastle, Va. 24090.

A memorial service will take place at a later date. Please check back for further details. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home Peters Creek Road Chapel. (540)366-0707.