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Phil lived a remarkably courageous life with Multiple Sclerosis diagnosed in his 40s but it was post-Covid pneumonia that took him to be with the Lord he knew so faithfully and well. His first experience of faith occurred in Lancing’s Chapel, although his parents were deeply committed Christians who gave all three of their boys a wide understanding of the Bible and the vital life importance of the Gospel. Phil’s older brothers, William Felton Ross and Samuel Murray Ross were also at Lancing, the family contact having begun during Lancing’s wartime evacuation. Phil’s love of choral music stemmed from his Lancing years.
His career was wide ranging; from farming the family’s property, to belated National Service in the non-combatant corps in the Army and then into sales.
He progressed to 12 years with Monsanto, becoming Director of the European branch dealing with fibres. Phil then changed careers, building personally-designed homes and conversions in Wales. Health and family responsibilities brought another change in career, where he and his second wife Tricia ran a B&B in Ludlow. Phil was actively involved in the local provision for people with disabilities and Churches Together groups. He was Church Treasurer for St Giles, Ludford. Following Tricia’s death in 2011, Phil moved to Caversham to be near his younger daughter.
Phil had four children, who have been the most loving stepchildren any woman could wish to have. He leaves eight grandchildren, all of whom delighted him. Phil and I married in January 2017 and he moved to join me in Wimbledon, very near his elder daughter. We enjoyed an Oldest OLs day in June 2017 and Phil and I visited the Chapel on several occasions before MS and other health issues curtailed activities.
Claire Ross