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Honoring Jerold Ross Sr.-A lifetime of public service

PHIL HOLMES/Sun-Gazette

He made a difference in the lives of others through his compassion, dedication and by simply helping those who needed help.

Family and friends filled the Woodward Township firehouse on Route 220 Monday afternoon to remember and say goodbye to Ross, a lifelong volunteer firefighter, serving Larry’s Creek and Citizens Hose Company in Jersey Shore.

A trained paramedic, Ross, who served the last several years as the chief deputy coroner for Lycoming County, died last week just outside his Salladasburg home.

At the funeral service, those that loved Ross hugged one another, shared tears and laughs with each another.

“Jerold loved what he did. I don’t think he worked a day in his life. I think he always understood that to work is to do what you believe and to do what you love, and that is exactly what he did,” the Rev. Howard Woodruff, a longtime friend of Ross’, said to the large crowd during the service that he officiated.

In honor of Ross, black bunting was draped over the sign of the firehouse, where his funeral service was held Monday. PHIL HOLMES/Sun-Gazette

As he fought back tears – but also at times chuckled – Lycoming County Charles E. Kiessling Jr. spoke about how Ross time and time again made a difference in the lives of others, being a rock of support “in the worst of times.” Kiessling was Ross’ supervisor, but the two also had a lifelong friendship.

Quoting Mark Twain, Kiessling said “‘The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.’ That summons it up for Jerold.”

At the end of his remarks, Kiessling thanked by name each of Ross’ family members and said “Thank you for sharing Jerold with us.” Before returning to his seat, Kiessling said “Jerold, rest in peace. We got it from here, buddy”.

As a sign of respect and mourning, black bunting was put on the front of the fire trucks belonging to the companies Jerold Ross served all his life. PHIL HOLMES/Sun-Gazette

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