Mike Ross

Michael Reece "Mike" Ross, age 78, of Carthage, Texas, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026, in an Irving, Texas hospital following a brief illness.

Mike was born on July 21, 1947, in Panola County, Texas, to the late Robert Brinson and Billie Bowen Ross. He graduated from Carthage High School with the Class of 1965 and attended Panola College, where he sang in the college choir. 

A proud patriot, Mike served his country honorably in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Sergeant before receiving an honorable discharge. 

On February 13, 1970, he married the love of his life, Tommie Sue Wills, in Carthage. Together they shared more than 53 years of marriage before her passing on May 31, 2023. Mike was known for his remarkable work ethic. 

He spent many years in the sheet metal and air conditioning industry before owning and operating a service station. In recent years, he returned to the sheet metal and air conditioning business, a profession he truly enjoyed. Even during his final illness, Mike remarked that he was ready to get home so he could get back to work—a testament to his dedication and determination. 

A faithful member of First Baptist Church in Carthage, Mike devoted much of his life to serving his church family. He sang in the church choir, taught Sunday School, and faithfully served as Sunday School Superintendent for many years. Blessed with a beautiful singing voice, he loved gospel music and was a longtime member of the Churchmen Quartet. 

Mike was also deeply committed to serving his community. He was a devoted member of the Carthage Volunteer Fire Department for many years and generously gave of his time wherever he was needed. Sports were another passion in Mike's life. As a young man, he coached Pony League and American Legion baseball before later coaching Dixie League baseball. He was an enthusiastic supporter of the Carthage Bulldogs and could often be found cheering on local athletes at nearly any Carthage sporting event. Mike also cherished time spent at the farm, tending to cattle—or, as those who knew him best would say, making sure everyone else knew what needed to be done with the cattle. His quick wit and unmistakable sense of humor endeared him to family and friends alike. Above all else, Mike loved the Lord, cherished his family, and dedicated himself to serving others. His life was marked by faith, hard work, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to his community.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Jesse Ross and Larry Ross, and his sister, Betty Lawhorn.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Karen Joines and husband, Mart, and Josh Ross; grandchildren, Christina Jones and husband, Kevin, Bridget Lane and husband, Will, Cade Ross, and Kennedy Ross; great-grandchildren, Emerson Lane, Coleman Lane, and Baker Lane; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Carthage with Dr. Allen Tilley officiating under the direction of Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Waldrop Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. Thursday at the church prior to the service.

Pallbearers will be Gene Giles, Gary Wellborn, Brian Murff, Scott Surratt, Will Lane, and Kevin Jones.

Honorary pallbearers will be Harold Allred, the employees of Wellborn Mechanical Services, and the members of the Carthage Volunteer Fire Department.

Condolences may be shared with the family through the online guestbook at www.jimerson-lipsey.com