Michael Ross

Michael Griff Ross was born August 27, 1957, in Columbus Ohio. He was the middle child born to Griff and Thelma Ross. He attended and graduated from South High School. After graduation he served in the Air Force.

During his military service in the armed forces, Michael attended and graduated from Hardin-Simmons University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in Abilene, TX. After his service ended, Michael decided to return home to Columbus, Ohio and pursue his profession as a Chemist. He began to work at the City of Columbus Water Treatment Plant and had the honor of becoming the first African American to work as a Chemist in the State of Ohio as well as the City of Columbus and soon became the Principal Chemist for the company. During this time, he decided to further pursue his education and graduated from Wilberforce University with a Masters of Science degree in Biochemistry with a concentration in Organic and Analytical Chemistry in Wilberforce, OH and later began to work for Roxane Laboratories, Inc in Columbus, Ohio. Even though Michael had a vast amount of knowledge and skill in the scientific realm, he had a passion and hunger to do more for the people and community in which he lived. He continued to study and further his education acquiring an insurance, contractor, and real estate licenses,branching into home construction and home renovation doing business as Owner / CEO of MGR Construction, Inc. This has remained his passion for the last 25 years. His many completed projects can be seen throughout the City of Columbus and Franklin County. Michael was always a strong man of great faith. He loved to study the Bible and word of God.  Although, life had many challenges, he always remained faithful and steadfast. Often times, he would be the one appointed to lead prayer meetings and teach Bible study. He was Patient, Encouraging, Understanding, Gracious and Compassionate. In his words and actions, he always gave credit to knowing how Jesus made a difference in his life no matter the obstacle.He has always been the go-to person for family and friends. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered. Michael was a member of Trinity Baptist church for many years where he served as a trustee. He later became member of New Birth Christian Ministries. 

In 2006, Michael met his true love, Anita P. Holmes, and the couple remained faithful and completely devoted to each other throughout the years. They were known for hosting the family cookouts and many family outings. This “southern belle” as Michael so affectionately called her, has been devoted and remained by his side until his last breath. In his own words, “Nita Bita” has opened my eyes to a love and something new every single day. Her mannerisms, smile, and contagious laughter warm my heart to depths that I could never imagine. She has been the most refreshing and caring person that I am blessed to have ever known to have as my partner in life.”

Michael went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 19, 2019. He is survived by his wife Anita P. Holmes, brother Mark (Carla) Ross, sister Sharon (Harvey) Gates, nephews, William and Jehaleleel (Genisis) Whyms, Jason Ross, niece Ashely Ross and a host of great nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. He is preceded in death by his father Griff Ross, mother,Thelma Ross and sister Brenda Whyms.

Family will receive friends January 6, 2020 from 10:00 am until time of service at 11:00 am at the Chapel of White's Funeral and Cremation Services, 867 S. James Road, Columbus, OH 43227. Benjamin F. "Benny" White, Jr. Funeral Director, (614) 947-1123, whitesfh867.com.  

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