Imogene Jones

Ross

Imogene Jones Ross, of Rockwall, Texas, passed away on October 19, 2026, at the age of 96. She was born on March 3, 1930, in Marshall, Texas, and lived a long life marked by intelligence, service, strength, and grace.

She grew up in Harleton, Texas, on a farm, where the values of hard work and family took deep root. After the death of her mother when Imogene was just 12 years old, she helped care for her family, taking on responsibility at a young age with quiet courage. Her gifts were evident early. She was valedictorian of her class, attended East Texas Baptist College in Marshall, and later received her bachelor’s degree from SMU, reflecting a lifelong commitment to learning and personal growth.

Imogene built a varied and meaningful working life. She began her career at Thikol Army Ammunition Plant in Karnack, Texas, later worked for the federal government Corps of Engineers, and also operated an antique store. She retired from the United States Government as an auditor for OSHA. In each chapter, she brought the same capable spirit and sharp mind that so many admired in her.

She lived in Texas until retirement, then made her home in Arizona for 31 years before returning to Texas. Wherever she lived, Imogene embraced life fully. She liked to hike and loved to travel. She especially loved plants, a joy that flourished during her years in the desert. She was proud to be a member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, and she held her convictions with sincerity as a staunch Republican and a member of the NRA. She was also named Miss Tall Texan for women over six feet tall, a distinction that surely suited her memorable presence.

Those who knew Imogene remember her as a gentle force and one of the most positive people they had ever known. She was described as a servant, super intelligent, and a lady. Her compassion was not simply spoken, but lived out in faithful action. For years, she volunteered with the Animal League, running its gift shop and managing high school students who walked the dogs and showed kindness to the animals. That work reflected the generous heart she carried throughout her life.

Imogene was of the Baptist faith and attended Prestonwood Baptist Church, where her beliefs remained an important part of who she was.

She is survived by Debra Phillips; her grandchildren, Alisha Smith and Randy Smith; Lainey Smith, Levie Smith, and Swayne Smith; and dear friends Robin Weibe, Carlos Flores, and Nancy Flores. She also leaves behind numerous family members who adored their Aunt Jean of all were blessed by her warmth, her steadiness, and her example.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry Jones and Daisy Wells; her spouses, Cy Ross and Mario Alexay; and her friends Edith Sloane and Nell Bryer.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at Liberty Heights Gracious Retirement Living, located at 963 West Yellow Jacket Lane, Rockwall, Texas 75087

Imogene Jones Ross lived with resilience, dignity, and a heart for others. Her life was one of devotion, perseverance, and kindness, and her memory will remain a blessing to those who knew and loved her.