Jill Macy Ross

Jill Ross, 78, died peacefully with her family at her side on March 18th. She was born on November 15, 1946 in South Bend, IN, to Rosalyn Berman (Nee Hochman) and Ralph Berman. She is survived by Steve Ross, her husband of more than 55 years; her daughter, Jessica Ross Prizont (Ariel Prizont); her sons, Jack Ross; and Jed Ross (James D'Orta); grandchildren, A.J., Cubby, Maryrose, Bashi, and Levi Yaakov; her sisters, Nikki, Jody and Cheri; and her loving first and second cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Jill got her Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and continued her studies at Emerson College in Boston MA. She graduated from Emerson with a Masters in Speech Pathology.

Jill met Steve in Stowe, Vermont, and they married in August, 1969. They travelled the world before moving to Greenwich, Connecticut. While in Greenwich, Jill and Steve formed lifelong friendships; Jessica and Jack were also born there. They moved back to South Bend in 1976 to be closer to family. Jed was born in South Bend, and and Jill began working at Memorial Hospital as a Speech Pathologist. She practiced there for 43 years, and was known as an excellent speech pathologist. Jill received many awards and commendations for her work, including Woman of the Year at Memorial. Jill’s patients also knew her as a caring and supportive professional who would do anything for them. She developed the Laryngectomy program, which included a very successful support group, and stayed in touch with many patients over the years.

Jill was also very involved in the Jewish community, including Sinai Synagogue and the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley. She chaired membership and fundraising drives for both institutions and was known as someone who would step up whenever needed. She led Sinai’s Sisterhood for many years and was one of the first women to serve on the Synagogue's Board of Directors.

Jill was devoted to her family and friends. She visited people who were lonely or sick and kept in touch with friends and relatives around the world. She loved to cook and bake, and routinely made dinner for people in need. Some of her favorite moments with spending time with and cooking for her family (especially her grandchildren!).

Shiva will be observed on Wednesday, March 19th, from 7 to 9 pm; Thursday, March 20th from 10am to 5 pm and 7 to 9 pm; Friday, March 21st from 10 am to 2 pm; Sunday, March 23rd from 7-9pm; and Monday, March 24th from 7 to 9pm.

The family respectfully requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Sinai Synagogue, 1102 E. LaSalle Ave., South Bend, IN 46617 or to the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley, 3202 Shalom Way, South Bend, IN 46615.