David Clinton Ross, Jr.

David Clinton Ross, Jr. was born July 5, 1947, in Sumter, SC and was the son of David C. Ross, Sr. and Mary E. Barkley. David was a graduate of Hillcrest High School and attended Columbia Commercial College, where he met his future wife of 58 years, Frieda B. Ross. They resided in Cayce, SC where they raised their daughter, Kimberly R. Corley.

David was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. David grew up farming with his family in Dalzell, SC. After moving to Columbia, he began his career at Wilbur Smith and Associates in the late 1960’s and retired after 42 years with the firm. David loved landscaping and making floral arrangements, so in the early 1990’s he opened a gift shop to showcase his talents. After retirement, David decided he wanted to stay active in the community and became an employee of Riverbanks Zoo. There, he drove the tram and worked in public safety, where he got to do something he loved - to meet and help people every day.

David was always full of laughter. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was forever trying to make those around him happy and cheerful. He would break into song just to see a smile come over someone’s face. David was a most generous husband, father and grandfather. He was always there to help, no matter the situation or time of day. He enjoyed spending time with his family, whether it be helping with parties, bowling, beach vacations which always included a trip to the arcade with his grandsons or simply just being together.

David passed away June 11, 2026. He is survived by his wife Frieda Black Ross of Cayce, SC; daughter Kimberly Ross Corley (Henry) of West Columbia, SC; and their three children, Logan, Nathan, and Jackson Corley.

Family and friends are invited to a memorial service on June 17 at 4:00 p.m., with visitation held from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m., both at Thompson Funeral Home of Lexington, 4720 Augusta Road, Lexington, SC, where loved ones will gather to honor and remember a life well lived.