Vivian Marjory Ross

Vivian Marjory (Clinton) Ross passed away October 22, 2019 in Puyallup, Washington where
she had lived since 1951. She was born on August 5, 1924 in Gregory, South Dakota to
Hillery Oval and Rose Virginia Margaret (Berens) Clinton. Vivian was one of eight children and
is survived by her sister, Shirely Bailey of Bonesteel, South Dakota and brother Arliss and his
wife Shirley Clinton of Clearwater, Nebraska. She was raised in Spencer, Nebraska where she
would meet her future husband, Donald Durl Ross who resided in the neighboring town of
Lynch, Nebraska. Donald was one of 14 children. Donald and Vivian married on October 17,
1941 and brought 8 children into their family. Donald predeceased Vivian, passing on October
20, 1987, their son, Richard H Ross passed away on March 31, 2008 both in Puyallup. Vivian is
survived by Rodney L Ross, Lanny D Ross, Cynthia Honey and Donald K Ross who all reside in
Puyallup; Dianne R Howell of Seattle, Caren R Bradley of Bonney Lake and Troy A Ross of
Lake Tapps. Vivian has in excess of 100 offspring, many residing in the Puyallup area. She is
lovingly call mom and grandma by her children and three generations of grandchildren.
Vivian was a traditional homemaker and stay at home mother until her youngest child entered
middle school when she began working part time in retail service. She retired at age 60 from JC
Penny located in downtown Puyallup to care for her husband during his 5 year bout with cancer.
She was surrounded by her husband’s large extended family who celebrated the 4th of July as
a traditional tribute to the family members who served in our nation’s military. Her love of
children and family is legendary within her family where it is well known that children were her
greatest joy. She loved the music of the 40’s and often sang along, dancing was a joy that she
shared with her husband, and Bingo was a favorite game which she enjoyed for decades with
family and friends. Vivian loved color and always dressed in her favorite colors of teal, pink and
blue. She loved a good silly story and always seemed to have a classic pun to share a smile
with family and friends. Her blue eyes and smile will always be remembered by those who knew
her well for their brightness and loving kindness.
Services will be held at Powers Funeral Home, 320 W Pioneer E, Puyallup, WA at 10:00 A.M.
on November 23. There will be a viewing between 3:00 to 6:00 P.M. on Friday, November 22.
Interment will be at Sumner Cemetery at 12324 Valley Ave E, Puyallup between 11:15 A.M.
and 11:45 A.M. A memorial reception will follow at United Methodist Church, 1919 W Pioneer
Ave, Puyallup at 12:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M.