Father William ROSS OCF

* 1888 - † 12.November 1969

The Reverend Father William Ross OCF died on 12 November 1969
Roman Catholic Chaplain to Her Majesty's Forces Deepcut from 1 June 1936

 

Excerpt taken from this thread of RAOConLine:

Although Father Ross died in 1968, I hope it is not too late to pay a tribute to him here.

Father Ross's service with, and for, the Army went back to the days of World War 1. I believe he ministered

to the Irish Guards in those days.

Mike tells me that he officiated at Blackdown/Deepcut between 1937 and 1968. He certainly looked after the

spiritual needs of RC recruits in 1952, when I first encountered him. I was to meet him again when returning

to Blackdown on courses in 1959 and again in 1968, shortly before he died.

He was a giant of a man physically, and was amongst the few padres whose "Padre's Hour" was eagerly looked

forward to by recruits. He avoided "pi-jaw" (pious talk), and entertained us with stories of the "good old days", very much a soldier in his attitude and talk. He loved visiting the sergeants mess, and indulging in chat over a glass of whiskey.

He was a great friend to the RAOC, although I don't think we ever quite replaced the "Micks" in his heart.

A great character, and a great servant to the Army in general, and the RAOC in particular. RIP. Tel

Terence Fitzgerald

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Have just checked the details in my St Barbrara's history book. Father Ross   retired in 1968 and died 18th of November 1969. 
Like many priests he never   really retired and probably officiated at some services in 1968/69, The last   burial service he is 
listed as officiating was 16th January 1968. Weddings and   Baptisms are not listed in the book, but will be in the Parish   Record. 
 			  
He is buried in RC Plot D-1 Row 1 at St Barbara's Garrison   Church Deepcut. 
Mike Comerford  			  

ROAC Gazette Extract