Richard Raymond Ross, 79, passed away peacefully in his home in Hurricane, Utah, on June 29, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, following a courageous and lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born on May 9, 1947, in Provo, Utah, Richard was the cherished only child of George Raymond Ross and Effie Gail Ross. He grew up in Provo, graduating from Provo High School in 1964 as the Sterling Scholar in Music. It was during these formative years that his lifelong passion for music took root, shaping the trajectory of his entire life.

Richard pursued his passion through higher education, earning a Bachelor of Music from Brigham Young University, a Master of Music from the University of Utah, and ultimately a Doctor of Musical Arts from the Catholic University in Boston Massachusetts.

As a dedicated music professor and educator, Richard’s career spanned decades and crossed the country teaching in California, New York, Oklahoma, Iowa and Utah. Richard moved to Chickasha, Oklahoma to teach at the University of Science and Arts. This is where he met his beautiful wife Laura. They both shared a love of music throughout their marriage, and they spent many hours working on music and performing together.

Richard was an exceptionally gifted musician who mastered the trombone, baritone, and euphonium. He was a dedicated member of the Payson City Band, sharing his talents with the community for 30 years. He performed with the BYU marching band, jazz band, and concert band; Barnum and Bailey Circus Band; Washington DC Wolf Trap National Performing Arts Band to name a few. Richard also performed with famous artists such as The Carpenters, Elvis Presley, Henry Mancini, Bob Hope, Lou Rawls and many more. He was a brilliant composer and arranger who possessed the rare, meticulous skill of writing out individual parts for every instrument in his musical groups. He was happiest sitting at the kitchen table, creating beautiful arrangements for his brass ensembles.

Known by all for his calm demeanor and gentle kindness, Richard had a great love for animals of all kinds. He shared his life with many beloved dogs over the years, and he possessed a special spirit that drew animals to him—all dogs naturally loved Richard.

Beyond his musical professional achievements, Richard was a man of deep faith. He was a gifted teacher within his church, serving in various callings throughout his life. He served in many Bishoprics, High Counsel, and as a Gospel Doctrine teacher. He was an amazing example and missionary to his wife and children. He spent many Sundays speaking in sacrament meetings, where he loved to share his powerful testimony and love for the gospel with his congregation. Richard served as a service missionary multiple times giving much of his time and talent to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Above all, Richard was a devoted family man. His legacy of love, faith, and music lives on through his children and grandchildren. Richard is survived by his beloved wife, Laura Ross; his four children, Rachel (Shane), Renae (David), Robin, and Ryan (Tara); his 12 cherished grandchildren; and his 1 great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Gail Ross.

Funeral services will be held in Hurricane, Utah on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., with a viewing prior at 10:00 a.m., at the LDS Chapel located at 642 North 2850 West.

Those unable to attend are invited to view the services at the following ZOOM link: Livestream

Graveside services will be held in Provo, Utah on Friday, July 17, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Provo City Cemetery located at 610 South State Street.

Donations to support the family can be sent via Venmo to @Renae-Ross.