Evelyn Ross

Posted on January 23, 2026

Evelyn Ross, 94, of Perry, Florida, passed peacefully on January 20, 2026. Born November 5, 1931, in Midland City, Alabama, Evelyn lived a life full of love, faith, and joy. With full hearts and deep love, her family shares that she has gone home to be with the Lord.

Evelyn spent most of her life in Perry and was a longtime, faithful member of New Home Baptist Church. Her faith, kindness, and steady presence were a guiding light to her family and to all who knew her.

A determined and spirited woman, Evelyn proved time and again that it is never too late to follow a dream. She earned her high school diploma in her 50s, went on to beauty school, and proudly became a hairdresser for many years. She stayed active bowling in a league for over 40 years, was a member of the Lady Elks, volunteered with many organizations, and stayed busy serving others. She loved ballroom dancing, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. Lunch dates, outings, Bunco nights, Blackjack with family, and gatherings with the former Red Hats – now the Golden Girls – brought her so much joy. If someone mentioned the word “go,” she was ready.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 53 years, Elton “Bunny” Ross; her parents, Bert Hughes, Thelma Hughes, and Vera Henley; her in-laws, Arren Ross and Mary Ross; 2 of her grandchildren, Lacy and Lisa McGuire; a son-in-law, Allen Murphy; and her siblings Joe (Doris) Hughes, Robert Hughes, Don (Sandra) Hughes, Charles Shepherd, Clifford Hughes, Sue (Allen) Tison.

Evelyn is survived by her loving family of children, Charlotte Murphy, Paula (Mike) McGuire, and Rick (Dawn) Ross; 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren, each one a living piece of the legacy she built through love, patience, and devotion. She is also survived by her brother, Johnny Hughes, and her sisters, Mary (George) Pantoja and Sherry Icenogle.

At 94 years young, Evelyn was still loving life and living it fully. She leaves behind a family and a community forever touched by her warmth, her determination, and her unwavering love.

“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:20

A Celebration of life will be held at New Home Baptist Church on January 24, 2026 at 11.00am. Visitation will be held one hour prior at 10:00am.