James Nixon Ross

James N. Ross, 82, of Whately, Massachusetts, passed away surrounded by his family on Jan. 15th, 2026.

Born and raised in Northampton, MA, Jim was predeceased by his parents, James and Lillian Ross and his beloved niece, Melissa Morse. He graduated from Northampton High School before proudly serving in the United States Air Force, where he achieved the rank of Tech Sergeant. After completing his military service, Jim earned a degree in Finance from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. This laid the foundation for a long and varied professional life.

After college, Jim worked for many years as a salesman, primarily in the telecommunications sector. He later became a small business owner, operating the Whately General Store alongside his wife, Katherine for over eight years. Later in life, he established JDR Builders, alongside his son, JD Ross.

Jim was deeply devoted to his family and is survived by his wife of 54 years, Katherine (Farrell) Ross, and their children, spouses, and many grandchildren. Jim and Kate built a life rooted in love, partnership, and deep community ties, in Whately and beyond. He was the proud father of four children, father-in-law to their spouses, and devoted grandfather to his six grandchildren.

Jim is survived by his wife Katherine, their children JD Ross and wife Amy Ross, of Whately, MA, daughter Jodi Quintin and husband Justin Quintin, of Medford, MA, daughter Maggie Merrigan and husband Patrick Merrigan of Greenfield, MA, and son Alex Ross and wife Laura Ross of Whately, MA. He also leaves behind his sister, Jane Morse and husband Stephen of Vernon, CT, along with devoted in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, and treasured friends who supported him throughout his life.

Jim’s greatest joy in life was his role as grandfather to his five grandsons; John Ross, Jack, Tucker, and Lucas Merrigan, and Henry Ross; as well as his granddaughter Bailey Ross. Each of them brought tremendous pride, laughter and purpose to Jim’s life.

A proud Veteran of the United States Air Force, Jim was an active member of the local Hale Clapp VFW post #3295. He was a long-time resident of the Town of Whately and gave generously of his time in town boards and committees for over twenty years. Jim served on the town’s Conservation Commission, played an active role in the running of the town’s library as a Library Trustee, and acted as a Voter Registrar. Jim took a special pride in assisting with the annual Memorial Day Celebrations and was honored to assist in the design and implementation of the Veteran’s Memorial that stands in the center of town. In 2021 Jim was awarded a ‘Quilt of Valor’ by the National Quilts of Valor Foundation in recognition of his service to his community and country.

In addition to his service and work, Jim had a lifelong passion for classic cars. He was especially proud of his treasured yellow 1956 Thunderbird, which he lovingly restored and displayed at the local car shows. He was also a dedicated Red Sox fan and could often be found on his screen porch watching baseball in the summer months.

Jim will be remembered for his generosity, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and community. He will be deeply missed, and the impact of his life will continue to be felt by all who knew him.

Calling hours at Ahearn Funeral Home will be on January 23rd from 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. The family invites you to join them directly at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church in South Deerfield, MA on Saturday, January 24th at 10am to celebrate the Liturgy of Christian burial for Jim. Burial with military honors will follow in Center Cemetery, Whately.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute at Cooley Dickenson Hospital or South County Triad in South Deerfield, MA.