Douglas Hargrove Ross

ROCKY MOUNT – Douglas Hargrove Ross, age 59, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 20, 2023. He was born in Hinds County, MS on November 21, 1963. At the age of three, Doug moved with his parents, to Enfield. He attended Woodberry Forest School for two years and later graduated from Enfield Academy. A gifted student, Doug was also recognized for his sharp and intriguing wit. Best known for his exceptional athletic skills, whether playing tennis, shooting basketball, running down a football down the field or swinging a golf club, Doug could make it happen. He was a lifelong member of the Episcopal Church of the Advent where he served for several years as an acolyte. Doug graduated from Guilford College in 1988 and worked briefly with New York Life Insurance before accepting a position as assistant general manager with E. L. Ross Insurance Company in Enfield. A true people person, coupled with an outgoing personality, Doug was valued by his co-workers and trusted by his clients throughout his 21-year tenure. He was an avid outdoorsman, a dedicated hunter, and a master gardener. More than bagging his own trophies, he truly loved cheering for his many friends’ successes – often giving way for another to take that perfect shot. Fishing, especially deep-sea fishing, was another of Doug’s passions. He spent many happy times at his family’s home in Swansboro with his daughters, telling stories and dreaming of his next “big catch.” To quote one of Doug’s closest friends: “Doug loved to hunt and fish. He was an excellent shot and a knowledgeable fisherman. Like in all other aspects of his life, despite his prowess, when hunting or fishing, Doug always unselfishly delighted in the success and satisfaction of those around him more than he did in his own personal accomplishments.” Doug is survived by his daughters, Lindsey Anne Ross, Haven Elizabeth Ross, and Charlotte Patteson Ross; his parents, Ernest Lewis Ross and Merlyn Joyce Hargrove Ross; his sister, Garrett Ross Clark; his brother-in-law, Watson Gerald “Gerry” Clark, IV; three nieces; and his former wife and mother of his children, Heather Patteson. A Graveside Service to celebrate Doug’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Elmwood Cemetery in Enfield with the Rev. George Greer, recently retired rector of St. Andrews Episcopal Church of Rocky Mount, officiating. The family will be available to receive friends and relatives immediately following the graveside service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Doug’s memory to The Historical Episcopal Church of the Advent, 4894 Thirteen Bridges Road, Enfield, NC 27823. Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.