We praise God for the life of our sweet dad. John Ross Burgess, Jr., 97, who is now reunited in Heaven with the love of his life, our beautiful mom, Patricia Shealy Burgess (1996). His love, admiration and devotion to Pat was expressed openly to family and friends. They loved each other dearly and were married 43 wonderful years.
The eldest of nine children, John Ross was born February 15th, 1929 in Rock Hill, SC. He was the son of the late John Ross Burgess, Sr. and Millie Mae Settlemyre Burgess. He is predeceased by 7 siblings.
Upon graduating high school he attended The Citadel in Charleston, SC. In 1948 Ross was called to serve his country during the Korean War. He was assigned to the United States Air Force Air Command and Staff School. He served at many locations and was honorably discharged in 1952. Ross enjoyed a 29 year career with Lowe’s Companies. The founder of Lowe’s, Mr. Carl Buchan hired him as a store manager in Chester SC. He later opened new stores throughout the Southeast. After his promotion to the corporate office in N. Wilkesboro, NC, he served as a Region Vice President of the stores in the Southeast US. His last assignment, prior to retirement, was Executive Vice President and General Merchandise Manager for the company. He retired in 1985. Ross viewed his Lowe’s career as a remarkable experience. The friends he made and places he visited around the world were memories that he carried throughout his life. His second successful career took him to Berry’s Furniture in Rock Hill. He managed the store for over a decade and developed many friendships which he cherished until his last breath.
Surviving are his family Cindy and Randy Hendrix of Rock Hill, SC, Lisa Prince of Naples, Fla., Lori and David Dacus of Charlotte, NC, his beloved grandchildren, Gray Hendrix, Will and Kelly Hendrix, Lila Prince, Frances Prince, Wyatt Dacus, Norah Dacus, his great granddaughter June Hendrix, his brother Hugh (Jan) Burgess, and many nieces and nephews all of whom he cherished.
To know John Ross Burgess was to love him. Per our Dad’s request: “Come celebrate my life. Come as you are, casual colorful attire”. Bonus if you have green, orange, pink, red or yellow tennis shoes (iykyk). No suits, ties, and nothing black. Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026 at Greene’s Funeral Home Northwest Chapel, 2133 Ebenezer Road, Rock Hill SC from 10am – 10:45am with a service to follow from 11am-12pm. A graveside service will follow at 12:30pm at Grandview Memorial Park, 620 S. Cherry Rd. Rock Hill SC.
In Lieu of flowers please donate to: Agape Hospice 112 Woodland Drive D Lancaster, SC 29720 or Sunflower Springs Assisted Living 2681 Lengers Way Indian Land SC 29707.