Amos McCoy Ross Jr.

Amos McCoy Ross Jr., affectionately known as "Famous" to the community and "Uncle Fame" to his loving nephews and nieces, was born on April 13, 1955, to the late Amos McCoy Ross Sr. and Dorothy Ross Martin. As the third eldest child and firstborn son of the young couple, Amos spent his formative years in Bluefield, graduating from Bluefield High School. The nickname "Famous," inspired by the beloved chocolate chip brand Famous Amos, suited his charismatic personality. Amos's sense of duty led him to enlist in the United States Navy, embarking on an esteemed military career as a Seaman. His travels took him across the globe as he served his country with dignity and honor. Beyond his military service, Amos possessed a talent for working with his hands. He was employed with the Bluefield Sanitation Department, where he was once recognized as Employee of the Month for his outstanding work. After his tenure with the department, his dedication to his work and those around him earned him a reputation as a trusted and skilled professional. Amos, a dedicated member of the Gray Stone Farms team, worked tirelessly alongside Gerald in the tree trimming and landscaping business. Upon reaching retirement age, Amos devoted much of his time to his cherished hobby of fishing, finding solace in the quiet moments on the water. Though he often kept to himself initially, once comfortable, he engaged in thoughtful conversations, sharing stories and insights with those around him. Being "Uncle Famous" was a role he took seriously, and he proudly spoke of his two sons, considering it a vital part of his identity alongside his service as a veteran. On June 14, 2025, Amos passed away after a courageous battle with illness, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. He was preceded in death by his father, Amos Sr.; mother, Dorothy Ross Martin; stepfather, Clarence Martin; younger brother, Charles Ross Sr.; and three sisters, Audrey Ross Mitchell, Patricia Ross Shaw, and Shelby Martin Smalls. Amos also mourned the loss of his beloved nephew, Jaydon Brown, whose memory he held dear. Amos leaves behind a large and blended family who will continue to honor his memory. His survivors include his two sons, Wade Hanley and Robert Booker and his wife Dawn; five grandsons, Brian, Malcolm, Tyrian, Amari, and Zawnte; two granddaughters, Shayla and Londyn; and one great-grandson, Brian Jr. He is also survived by four dedicated sisters: Linda Ross and her husband Bruce Brown, Peggy Ross Hudson, Beverly Martin Crenshaw, and Leslie Martin. Amos was the oldest male in his family. He leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and grand nieces and nephews who will carry on the Ross-Martin family legacy. Among those who will miss him dearly are Joscelyn Brown and her children, Brooklyn Brown and her children, Kaiden, Au’Brei, and Joscelyn Brown; Jaydon's son, Jaydon Dyon Wayne Brown; Avery Jenkins, son of Joscelyn, and his children, Laila, Avery Jr., and Bruce Jenkins. Additionally, his niece Brooke Brown and her children, Tevon Headen and Lyndon Harmon; Georgie Ross, daughter of his late brother Charles; and his devoted niece, Raenel Crenshaw. Amos is also survived by four nephews: Michael and William Smalls III, along with his wife Danica and their daughter Reagan Smalls; Alvie Shaw and his daughter Aliza Shaw; Aaron Martin and Kayla and their children, Alexander Martin and Aaralyn Dempsey. His nephew Charles Ross II, son of his late brother Charles, and Charles's children, Zade Cogar and Taryn Ross, will carry on the Ross name. Amos's passing will be felt by a host of cousins, relatives across the country, and friends and neighbors in Bluefield who cherished him for his kindness, dedication, and generous spirit.

Amos McCoy Ross Jr.

April 13, 1955 - June 14, 2025