1934 – 2010
Born June 14, 1934 in Richmond, Indiana to the late John M. and Evelyn (Smith) Henderson. She lived by the scripture that says, “To whom much is given, much is required”, demonstrated by her life-long efforts to improve the lives of others. Norma was united in marriage with Robert Paul Ross, Sr. of Richmond, Indiana on September 4, 1954. Norma graduated from Richmond Senior High School and received her undergraduate degree from Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana. She worked as both a classroom teacher and a curriculum consultant in the Dayton Public School system. Normas involvement in community service includes, but was not limited to: The African American Advisory Council at Earlham College, The Dayton Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, a Trustee and Multi-Cultural Liaison for the Opera Guild of Dayton, an Advisor for the membership committee of the Dayton Philharmonic Womens Volunteer Association, a trustee on the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra Board, a life member of the National Council of Negro Women, NAACP, The Dayton Urban League, and SCLC. She was a member of the Dayton Chapter of Sophisticates and Les Amis Couple Club. She was a foundation board member for Central State University and served as a member of the Wright Dunbar Board of Trustees. Norma was a co-founder and trustee for the Action Youth Outreach program, an outgrowth of The Tiger Woods “Start Something Action Project”. Norma was an active member of Trinity Presbyterian Church. In 1997 upon the untimely death of her husband, Norma assumed command of the Bob Ross Dealerships. In this second career she played an integral role in growing the business with her daughter and son.