John Kevin Ross
In Loving Memory
John Kevin Ross, born on May 18, 1956 in Washington, D.C., passed away on July 12th. He was the beloved son of John H. Ross (deceased) and Nancy A. (Gibbon) Ross. He was one of nine siblings and is survived by brothers and sisters: Mary Lynn Scovazzo (Vince), Katherine O'Keefe (Jack), Peter Ross, Jennifer Morrison (Skip), Patricia Bucaccio (Gerald), Gerald Ross (Helen Oswick), Thomas Ross (Sheree Morton), and Michael Ross. He was a proud uncle to 17 nieces and nephews and a great-uncle to five.
Kevin faced and overcame a life-threatening bicycle accident during his paper route at age 13, an event that shaped his perspective and resilience. His commitment to education led him to earn a degree in Sociology from Millersville University and a Master of Arts from Penn State University. Despite suffering a debilitating stroke in 2013, Kevin remained intellectually engaged and passionate about teaching. He taught at Lock Haven University for many years, then returned to PSU in 2013 as an Adjunct Instructor in the Sociology Department. He influenced countless students through his rigorous, writing-intensive courses. He was also known for his sharp mind, hearty laugh, and unwavering integrity in the classroom and beyond.
Kevin was a lifelong learner, an avid reader, and a dedicated genealogist who took great joy in researching the Ross family history. His adventurous spirit took him across the United States several times, to Scotland with his longtime friend Rob McKenzie, and on a cherished trip to Ireland with his mother, Nancy. Those who knew Kevin remember him as a kind, thoughtful man who never forgot a birthday. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, students, and all whose lives he touched.