JoAnn Ross, 79, of Orange, passed away Saturday, July 6, 2013, at Sabine House in Orange surrounded by her family.

Funeral services will be 1pm Wednesday, July 10, 2013, at Claybar Funeral Home Chapel in Orange. Officiating will be Pastor Lynn Hogg and Dr. Bob Webb of Trinity Baptist Church in Orange. Burial will follow at Orange Forest Lawn Cemetery in Orange.

Visitation will be from 11am to 1pm, Wednesday, at the funeral home.

Born in Paris, Texas, on June 9, 1934, JoAnn was the daughter of Gordon Alford and Peggy Reeves Alford. JoAnn was a beloved mother, grandmother and devoted wife. Her passion and love for life revolved around caring for her children and grandchildren. As a simple yet, strong willed woman she was the backbone of her large family. Her strength and love will be carried on by her children.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Russell C. Ross; and daughter, Donna Ross.

JoAnn is survived by her son Russell Ross, Jr. and wife, Vickie of Westlake, Louisiana; daughter, Renda Scott and husband, Norman of Little Cypress; sons, Kent Ross and wife, Kim of Longville, Louisiana, Twain Ross and wife, Heather of Bridge City, Tobin Ross and wife, Kadie of Orangefield; twelve grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and sister, Betty and husband, Steve Hogg of Orange.

Serving as pallbearers will be Trent Sprayberry, Kevin Ross, Dylan Ross, Kent Ross, Twain Ross, Tobin Ross, and Tyler Ross.

The family would like to send their appreciation to the Sabine House Staff and a special thank you to JoAnn’s private caregivers, Angie Washington, Tanisha Thibodeaux, and Debra Riley.