Ross Richardson Roberts, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, dedicated educator, engaged community member and longtime resident of Concord, passed away peacefully at Care Dimensions Hospice House in Lincoln, on May 9, 2024, at the age of 96.
Born May 14, 1927, in Hartford, CT, to Elizabeth Hope Richardson Roberts and Douglas James Roberts, Ross grew up in Hartford and later moved to Vernon, Connecticut, where he spent much of his childhood on “The Farm.”
After graduating from Phillips Exeter Academy in 1945, Ross served in the Navy as a seaman first class aboard the USS Damato (DD-871). While at the helm of his Gearing-class destroyer, he demonstrated his compassion for animals by steering sharply away from a whale dead ahead to avoid harming it. His kindness and respect for all living creatures were evident throughout his life.
After World War II, he went on to earn an undergraduate degree in geography from the University of Vermont, an MBA from Columbia University, and a MALS in Mathematics from Wesleyan University.
A passionate educator, Ross taught mathematics at several private schools, including St. Michael’s School in Newport, Rhode Island, Tilton School in Tilton, New Hampshire, and Belmont Hill School in Belmont. He also coached various sports teams, even in areas where he had no prior experience, showcasing his adaptability and dedication to his students.
In 1952, Ross married the love of his life, Nancy Elizabeth Allen. They shared a dynamic and loving relationship for 56 years until Nancy’s passing from complications related to ovarian cancer on January 9, 2009. Together, they raised two children, Ross Richardson Roberts, Jr. and Susan Allen Roberts Shultz.
Known for his dry wit and wry New England humor, Ross enjoyed telling jokes and bringing laughter to those around him. He had a deep appreciation for nature and loved outdoor activities such as skiing, walking, birding, swimming, and rowing in his Adirondack canoe.
Lake Sunapee, New Hampshire held a special place in Ross’s heart, as it was a cherished location connected to his wife’s family. He loved spending time there, sitting on the porch, reading, and admiring the mountain view. These moments of tranquility and reflection brought him great joy and peace.
Ross was a lifelong learner with a gentle, kind-hearted spirit. An intrepid traveler, his quest for knowledge spanned six continents, including excursions to Africa and Antarctica in his late 80s. He saw the best in everyone and valued his connections with his extended family on both the Roberts and Richardson sides, considering many of them close friends.
Passionate about politics, both local and national, Ross served as a polling station volunteer for many decades and was a long-term participant in the Town of Concord annual Town Halls. He strongly believed in allowing the voices of all to be heard and considered in government. A staunch Democrat, he often quoted John F. Kennedy’s words about privilege: “To those to whom much is given, much is expected.”
His ardent desire to serve others was also evidenced by his volunteerism. This included Emerson Hospital, an Assabet River preservation group, and the Meals on Wheels program, delivering meals to senior citizens well into his 80s.
Ross was also an active member of Trinity Church in Concord, where he served as an usher and occasionally sang in the choir. His faith and commitment to his church community were an essential part of his life.
A self-described introvert, Ross could often be found at parties perusing the host’s book collection, reflecting his love for knowledge and learning. This passion led him to establish a scholarship foundation at his beloved alma mater, the University of Vermont, in memory of his late wife, Nancy.
Ross is predeceased by his beloved wife, Nancy, and two siblings, Douglas James (Jimmy) and Jane Pastel. Survivors include two children: Ross R. Roberts Jr. (Robin) of Fernandina Beach, Florida, and Susan A.R. Shultz (David) of Sheboygan, Wisconsin; six grandchildren: Brianna Westfall (Daniel), Bridget Weil (William), Brittany Giovannoni (Patrick), Douglas Shultz (Kate), Jonathan Roberts (Madeline), and Catherine Shultz; two step-grandchildren: Michael Shultz (Megan Duley) and Randy Shultz (Amy); seven great-grandchildren, with an eighth on the way, and four step-great-grandchildren.
Ross Richardson Roberts will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former colleagues, students, and the countless lives he touched through his dedication to education, community engagement, and public service. His legacy of kindness, humor, and commitment to making the world a better place will continue to inspire all those who knew and loved him.
Relatives and friends will gather for a memorial service on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 12 p.m. in the chapel of Trinity Episcopal Church, 81 Elm Street. A reception will follow. Private interment at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, charitable donations in his memory may be made to Meals on Wheels, Lake Sunapee Protective Association, or Emerson Health Foundation.
Arrangements are entrusted to Dee Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Concord. To share a memory or to offer a condolence in his online guestbook, please visit www.DeeFuneralHome.com.
