Tuesday, November 25, 2025 4:53 pm

Roger Dale Ross, 79, of Shelby, passed away at his residence on Friday, November 21, 2025, following a long hard fight with cancer. A native of Gaston County, he was born January 18, 1946, to the late Oliver Othelon Ross and Catherine Louise Ross. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, John Thomas Ross.

Roger began his career with Canteen Corporation, working for 42 years prior to his retirement in 2011. His hard work and dedication led him to become associate of the year. Following his retirement, he was an avid gardner and enjoyed yardwork. Roger loved drag racing and had won five racing trophies. He was an avid supporter and fan of the Clemson Tigers Football Team. Roger was blessed with a tremendous talent of freehand drawing and displayed his skill often.

Roger was a devoted Christian man. He displayed his faith through his many years of faithful membership at First Baptist Church of Shelby. During that time, he was also a member of the Co-ed Sunday School Class and served on many church committees.

Those left to cherish the memories of Roger's life include his beloved wife, Dianne Tomblin Ross, of the home; daughter, LaShay Martin and husband Kevin, of Gastonia; step-daughter, Amy Barnes and husband David, of Easley, South Carolina; two grandchildren, Madison Pena and husband Miguel, of Gastonia, and Talan Martin, of Gastonia; and a bonus grandchildren, Caroline Pope, of Hendersonville.


The funeral service will be conducted at 3:00 PM on Sunday, November 23, 2025 at First Baptist Church of Shelby with Reverend Asher Panton and Reverend Perry Holleman officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service time. Entombment services will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, November 24, 2025 in the Cleveland Memorial Park Mausoleum.


Memorial donations have been requested to First Baptist Church of Shelby or to the First Baptist Church Co-ed Sunday School Class, 120 N. Lafayette St., Shelby, NC 28150.


Online condolences can be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.


Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family.