Charles Derek “Chip” Ross

Mr. Charles Derek “Chip” Ross

Mr. Charles Derek “Chip” Ross, 54, passed Friday, November 10, 2017 in Memphis, Tennessee. He was born October 6, 1963 in Memphis, Tenn. Chip graduated from Blytheville High School in 1981. He was a first chair trombonist and xylophonist with the marching and and member of All State Choir. He was an accomplished pianist and vocal soloist. He attended Arkansas State University in Jonesboro and Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina.

He was a gifted conversationalist who never met a stranger and enjoyed exchanging stories. This made him a natural fit for his career in the hospitality industry. He started at the front desk and worked himself into management in many luxury hotels in Dallas, Texas, Naples, Florida and Charlotte, North Carolina.

He later became an International Reservationist with U.S. Airways in Winston Salem, N.C. He found joy in alleviating stress of weary travelers and the challenge of finding expedited pathways for their journeys. His photographic memory allowed him to quickly recall the abbreviation for every airport in the world.

While in North Carolina, he discovered a passion for gardening with a focus on rare trees and ornamental grasses. Although surrounded by the beauty of the mountains and his gardens, he was unable to continue his battle with depression and bi-polar disorder without his family nearby. He returned to Jonesboro where he used his knowledge for plants and garden design as a plant specialist for local nurseries.

After many years of battling mental illness, his physical health began to fail. As his body weakened, his faith in Christ grew stronger. He became an encourager to many who faced similar life struggles.

On November 10 he joined his beloved grandparents, Raymond and Viola Ross and Floyd and Louise Hamlett, in heaven, standing whole and at peace before his Lord.

Chip is survived by his parents, Charles and Jo Ross of Jonesboro; a brother and his wife, Chris and Leigh Anne Ross of Jonesboro; a sister and her husband, JoBeth and Phillip McElhanon of Little Rock; nieces, Megan Ross and Macey Ross; a nephew, Harrison McElhanon and his beloved rescued cat, Cowboy.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at First Baptist Church in Jonesboro. Reverend Bruce Venable will officiate.

Memorials may be sent to NEA Humane Society at 6111 Highland Dr., Jonesboro, Ark. 2401.

The arrangement are being handled by Gregg-Langford Bookout Funeral Home www.gregglangfordbookoutfh.com .