Martha E. Ross

Martha Edna (Massie) Ross, age 79, of Vermillion, Kansas, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2024, at the Frankfort Community Care Home in Frankfort, Kansas.

Born on August 12, 1945, to James and Bobbie Massie, Martha—known lovingly as Marti—dedicated her career to helping others, working at Ocean View Hospital in San Diego, California, and later serving as a medical records secretary at the Frankfort Care Home. Throughout her life, she embraced various roles that allowed her to connect with those around her.

On May 20, 1978, Marti married Charles Clifford Ross in Coronado, California. Their journey began with a blind date that blossomed into an inseparable partnership lasting over 46 years. Charles fondly recalls, “I was really struggling when we met; she pulled me back to reality. She was respectful of those she knew and always had a smile for everyone.”

Marti's love for cooking and baking brought joy to her family, and her vibrant spirit kept her always on the go. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

She is survived by her two children, Timothy James Berry of Vermillion, Kansas, and Jeffery Thomas Berry of Lincoln, Nebraska; her four grandchildren, Tyler (Madeline) Berry, Sarah (Adam) Slifer, Helen Berry, and Sean Berry; and six great-grandchildren, Dylan Slifer, Alayna Slifer, George Slifer, Henry Slifer, Marigold Berry, and Arto Berry. Marti is also survived by her four siblings: Barbra (John) Mercer, Thomas Massie, James (Pat) Massie, and Francis (Kurt) Schreiner.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Thomas and Edna Massie, and her parents, James and Bobbie Massie.

Visitation was held Tuesday, December 3, from 2-8 p.m. at Padden Funeral Chapel. The family was present to receive friends from 5-7 p.m.

Graveside funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 4, at the Vermillion Cemetery.  Pastor Paul Campbell officiated.  The pallbearers were Josh Massey, Adam Slifer, Aaron Massey, Dylan Slifer, Denny Smith and Sean Berry. In remembrance of Marti, her family invited all to honor her memory and the love she shared throughout her life.

A memorial fund has been established and designated to St. Jude's Children Research Hospital.  Contributions may be sent in care of Padden Funeral Chapel or online donations made below.