Donald Martin Ross

Donald Martin Ross, age 76, permanent resident of Jupiter, Florida and longtime community member of Westhampton and Manhasset, NY, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. 

Donald was born March 1, 1949 at Mercy Hospital, Rockville Centre, NY to Alfred Joseph Ross and Annette Collins Ross.  Don was the youngest of six children and shared a close bond with his sister, Mary Lou Irvine, who survives him.  Don was raised in Manhasset, NY and graduated from St. Mary’s High School in 1967. He then went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts from Georgetown University in 1971 where he majored in English, sang in the Georgetown Chimes a capella group, and made lifelong friends.

Don married the love of his life, Kathy O’Malley, on February 3, 1973, at St. Anne’s Church in Cleveland Heights, OH, officiated by Father Yates. Don and Kathy were inseparable and married for fifty-two happy years. They raised their four children, Bridget, Patrick, Eileen, and Danny in Manhasset.  They had a charmed childhood filled with wonderful memories. He warmly welcomed his children’s spouses, David, Stephanie, Dan, and Meghan into the family and cherished every moment he spent with his eleven grandchildren who lovingly called him ‘Pops.’  

Don retired from a successful career as a Government Bond Salesman and Broker at the age of 65. He worked at Citibank, Bear Stearns, Eastbridge Capital, and Rafferty Capital Markets.  

Don embraced life fully and loved the little things: good food, family dinners, cold drinks with friends, golf trips, rolling dice, playing cards, and having a good laugh. Don had impeccable timing - he could always be counted on to deliver the perfect joke and tell a funny story. He was a man of deep faith, uncompromising moral character, and he had a presence that lit up every room. He loved music, often singing at weddings and proudly performing ‘God Bless America’ every 4th of July.  

Don was a true community leader, someone who consistently stepped forward in times of need. After the tragedies of September 11, he offered comfort through heartfelt eulogies for his beloved friends, giving voice to collective grief and hope. He led charitable auctions with humor and charisma, making events fun and impactful. Don was a generous man and his dedication to giving back was recognized through numerous awards for his contributions. He served as President of Westhampton Country Club and Plandome Country Club and strived to lead with integrity and serve the communities he cared so deeply about. 

A devoted Catholic, he was a longtime parishioner of Saint Mary’s Church, Immaculate Conception Church in Westhampton, and St. Jude’s Parish in Tequesta, FL. 

Don will be deeply missed by all who knew him.  May we live as he did, focusing on faith, family, friends, and kindness.

Services include: Visitation at Werner-Rothwell Funeral Home in Westhampton Beach, NY on Monday, May 26, 2025 from 3-7pm; Funeral Mass at Immaculate Conception Church in Westhampton, NY on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 11am.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice in honor of Don Ross who loved to give to others.