Pearl Elizabeth Ross, known lovingly to many as "Liz," passed away peacefully on September 22, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio, at the age of 87. Born on April 17, 1937, Liz was a beacon of strength, faith, and unwavering love, whose impact on her family, friends, and community will be forever cherished.

A proud graduate of Dunbar High School in 1957, Liz continued her education at Sinclair Community College and Carousel Beauty College, where she found her passion for hairstyling. For nearly 30 years, she dedicated herself to her craft, making her clients feel beautiful and valued, but Liz’s work extended far beyond the salon. Her devotion to her community was evident in her tireless work in voter registration efforts, where she passionately encouraged others to exercise their civic duties, always committed to making a difference.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. Liz was an active and dedicated member of several church communities, including Mt. Olive, Shiloh, Canaan Missionary Baptist Church, Omega Baptist Church, and later, First Institutional Baptist Church in Phoenix, Arizona, under the leadership of Dr. Pastor Warren H. Stewart Sr. Her unwavering devotion to God shaped her values, and she lived her life as an example of love, compassion, and service to others.

Liz’s vibrant personality shone through her hobbies, from modeling and fashion to crocheting and reading. She had a unique flair for beauty, always carrying herself with grace and style. Her joy came not only from these activities but also from volunteering, where she poured her heart into helping others, reflecting her generous spirit and desire to uplift those around her.

Family was the cornerstone of Liz’s life. She adored her children, Kathy L. Ross, Belinda (Cookie) Jackson, Jerry C.K. Ross Jr., and Dr. India Caldwell-Cox. Her sister, Shirley Ann Davis and Brother William (Sonny) Johnson. She was a proud grandmother to Anthony Jackson, Essence (Derrick) Wright, Jerry Ross III, Ti Baker, Elizabeth Jackson, Ashton Stanley, Daymon Wilson, John Noeske, and Jordan Cox, and a loving great-grandmother to Jalani Allen, Jazzmyne James, Ra'Ziyah Smith, Lei'lani Stanley, Carter Baker, Noah Bello, Noah Culver, Gia Baker, Dior Wilson, Draco Wilson, La'Myra Stanley, and Avery Wright. Though she endured the loss of her daughter, Belinda Michelle (Cookie) Jackson, grandson Javon Ross, and brother William (Sonny) Johnson, her legacy of love and resilience continues to live on through her family.

Mom, your love has shaped us, your strength has sustained us, and your light will forever guide us. You will be missed beyond words but never forgotten.

A celebration of Liz’s remarkable life will take place on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at The MarketPlace Movement Church, 3300 W Third St, Dayton, Ohio, 45417, officiated by Rev. DeAndra Jenkins. 

Family, friends, and all whose lives Liz touched are welcome to join in remembering the joy and wisdom she brought into the world. 

Family, will receive friends from 11:00 am to 12:00pm. Liz’s Celebration of Life will be from 12:00 pm to 2pm ending with a balloon release.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association in memory of Pearl (Liz) Ross, honoring her legacy of care and compassion or The MarketPlace Movement Church.