Father William George Ross OCF
* 26 January 1888 - † 18th.November 1969

Although Father Ross died in 1968, I hope it is not too late to pay a tribute to him here.
Father Ross's service with, and for, the Army went back to the days of World War 1. I believe he ministered to the Irish Guards in those days.
Mike tells me that he officiated at Blackdown/Deepcut between 1937 and 1968. He certainly looked after the spiritual needs of RC recruits in 1952, when I first encountered him. I was to meet him again when returning to Blackdown on courses in 1959 and again in 1968, shortly before he died.
He was a giant of a man physically, and was amongst the few padres whose "Padre's Hour" was eagerly looked forward to by recruits. He avoided "pi-jaw" (pious talk), and entertained us with stories of the "good old days", very much a soldier in his attitude and talk. He loved visiting the sergeants mess, and indulging in chat over a glass of whiskey.
He was a great friend to the RAOC, although I don't think we ever quite replaced the "Micks" in his heart.
A great character, and a great servant to the Army in general, and the RAOC in particular.
RIP.

Terence Fitzgerald

Have just checked the details in my St Barbrara's history book. Father Ross retired in 1968 and died 18th of November 1969.
Like many priests he never really retired and probably officiated at some services in 1968/69, The last burial service he is
listed as officiating was 16th January 1968. Weddings and Baptisms are not listed in the book, but will be in the Parish Record.

He is buried in RC Plot D-1 Row 1 at St Barbara's Garrison Church Deepcut.

Mike Comerford