Charles Richard Ross

Charles “Chuck” Richard Ross, of Fernandina Beach, FL, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on March 9, 1941, in Westfield, New York, Chuck was the beloved son of William and Mabel Ross. He grew up in Westfield, NY with his siblings, the late Donald Ross and his surviving sister, Donna Woleben.

Beyond all else, Chuck was a man devoted to his family. His greatest joy was sharing nearly 60 years of marriage with his life’s true partner, Marci Ross. Together, they built a warm and welcoming home, raised three sons—Mark, K.C., and Derek—and embraced adventures near and far, always putting family and friends at the center of their lives. Chuck welcomed his sons’ spouses/partners—Keith, Jenny, and Jen—into the family with open arms. He was especially proud of his six grandchildren: Jason, Ryan, Megan, Kate, Emily, and Sarah. Whether on the sidelines of a game or through conversations filled with wisdom, he took great pride in sharing lessons and encouragement, helping each of them grow into their own successes.

After graduating from St. Lawrence University, Chuck built a successful 35-year career before his retirement. As Managing Director at Merrill Lynch in both Retail and Capital Markets, he not only achieved professional success but also was afforded the opportunity to live in many exciting places around the country including Buffalo, Miami, Los Angeles, and just outside New York City, before finally settling in the Jacksonville, FL area. Throughout his career, Chuck provided his family the opportunity to travel the world and strengthen their family bond. These experiences enriched his life, broadened his perspective, and deepened the network of friendships he and his family cherished over the years. His lifelong interest in business and investments was a source of energy and curiosity that he carried with him always.

From an early age, Chuck had a deep love for sports and could often be found competing in anything with a ball. Later in life, golf became the game of choice, and he became one of the inaugural members of Pablo Creek Country Club in Jacksonville, Florida. His love of sports and competition carried throughout his life—first in coaching and encouraging his three sons in their athletic, personal, and professional pursuits, and later in following his grandchildren to every sporting event he could, cheering them on with unwavering enthusiasm.

After more than 25 years living in The Plantation at Ponte Vedra, Chuck and Marci came to cherish Ponte Vedra Beach as their home in Jacksonville, Florida. They were also longtime members of Palms Presbyterian Church, where they found a welcoming spiritual community and many lasting friendships. Most recently, they moved to Fernandina Beach, Florida to be closer to family and continue to enjoy life’s simple joys surrounded by their loved ones.

Known as the consummate gentleman, Chuck never met a stranger. His warmth, generosity, and kind spirit touched everyone he encountered. He leaves behind a legacy of love, integrity, and devotion that will be cherished by his family and all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Family and friends are invited to a memorial service to celebrate Chuck’s life at Palm Presbyterian Church in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. A reception will follow in the church hall. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be available via livestream at www.palmschurch.org/worship

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Palms Presbyterian Memorial Fund or the American Bladder Cancer Society, in memory of Charles Ross.