Patsy was the wife of John Ross, longtime GCI pastor in Greenwood, Mississippi, U.S. Join us in praying for John and their family. We share in their grief and in their hope of resurrection. The following is the obituary shared with Update from her family.
Mrs. Patsy McCain Ross was born January 29, 1967, to Mr. Tyree and Mrs. Claudine McCain in Doddsville, Mississippi.
She confessed her faith in Christ at the tender age of 10 years old at Little Lion Baptist Church in Money, Mississippi. After being a member of several denominations, Patsy found her permanent church home in 2004 as a devoted member Grace Communion International in Greenwood. On November 20, 2005, she was united in holy matrimony to Pastor John Leroy Ross, and for 19 years, she proudly served as first lady.
Patsy had a natural curiosity and a keen interest in understanding the world around her. That desire fueled her determination, inspiring her to pursue anything she set her mind to. She was passionate about gardening, crocheting, candy making, canning and baking. Her husband affectionately referred to her as the best cook in Mississippi. Above all, she had a deep love for reading and animals. She adored her dog, Hawk, and her cats, Damien and Turtle. As a young girl, she would be found curled up with a book. Her love of reading instilled in her a deep appreciation for the pursuit of knowledge, driving her journey toward academic success. She excelled as a student at Rising Sun Elementary School and Amanda Elzy High School before continuing her education at Mississippi Delta Junior College and Mississippi Valley State University. Patsy worked as a school secretary and data entry operator, eventually becoming an administrative assistant at Mississippi Valley State University, where she remained until her health declined. She received numerous accolades, including the Employee of the Year Award from Greenwood Public School District.
Patsy departed this life to go and be with Christ on February 18, 2025. Surviving to cherish her memory is her devoted husband of 19 years, John Leroy Ross; her daughter, Maya Delandra Dezell; her sons, Dorian Dezell, Curtis Ross (LaRicka) and Michael Ross (Perleshie); and her beloved granddaughters, Ori Le’Ann Dezell and Dyshaunita Ross. Patsy is also survived by her grandsons, Malcolm Toy (Ana), Steven Green, Nicholas Ross, and JonMichae Ross. She was the daughter of Mr. Tyree and Claudine McCain. She is remembered fondly by her sisters, Cynthia Diane Williams (Charles), Ora Dee Spencer (Lee), Belinda Mosley (the late Jimmy), and her brother, JC Harris (Dortheria). A host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and extended family will forever carry her memory in their hearts.
