West Tennessee mourns loss of respected leader James ‘JR’ Ross

JACKSON, Tenn. — With heavy hearts we are saddened by recent news of the passing of a well-respected leader in healthcare. James ‘JR’ Ross has died.

Ross was former chairman of the Jackson-Madison County Airport Authority Board and also served as president & CEO of West Tennessee Healthcare.

Ross leaves behind a legacy of dedicated service and profound contributions to the growth and success of the airport, West Tennessee Healthcare, and the entire West Tennessee region.

Community members mourn the loss after it was announced Thursday.

In a statement from Steve Smith, executive director of McKellar-Sipes Regional Airport, he expresses his condolences saying: “James Ross represented all that was right in West Tennessee. He was a visionary leader, a true success story in every sense of the word. His impact will be felt for years to come.”

Madison County Mayor A.J. Massey shares a profound memory of when Ross supported his family after becoming mayor.

“One thing that struck me is after my election, he made sure to reach out to my wife to let her know he was there to support her. You know, that means the world to a husband to make sure that there’s a man and a mentor like that; that makes sure and understands the family aspect of leadership, and to make sure my family was in tact and okay. I will never forget that and we are going to miss him,” said Mayor Massey.

Mayor Massey says with any person, but especially a leader in the community, it is important to think about and to remember what they leave behind.

“That’s something I can tell you, JR Ross will be remembered and his legacy will live on for as long as I’m in office for sure, and for generations in Madison County,” said Mayor Massey.

Funeral arrangements have not been shared at this time.

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