Desiree Lynn Ross

A Celebration of the Life of Desiree Lynn Ross

“Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.” Those words from Langston Hughes echo as we reflect on the remarkable life of our beloved Desiree Lynn Ross.

A Sketch of Desiree’s Life

It is with love and inspiration that we reflect upon the life of Desiree, born January 26, 1956, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to the late John Ross and Bertha Mae Hutchinson-Ross.

Desiree confessed her life in Christ at Community Baptist Church in Indianapolis, and her faith remained a guiding light throughout her life. She carried that faith with her in all she did, and it shaped the way she loved, served, and persevered.

She attended Indianapolis Public Schools and graduated from Crispus Attucks High School before attending Indiana University, where she pursued a degree in speech pathology. Driven by compassion and a desire to help others overcome communication challenges, she embodied a caring spirit and a deep commitment to making the world better.

Desiree’s career reflected her heart for service. She worked at Methodist Hospital, REM Indiana Community Service, and with Dr. John T. Young, M.D., Inc.,. She retired from Dr. Young’s office, where she especially loved caring for children. Even after retirement, her compassion led her back into caregiving for the elderly, where she faithfully served families in the Indianapolis community until 2018. She also dedicated time as a youth counselor at Kiddie Land Day Care Center and contributed to the United Northwest Association alongside her cousin, Andrea Turner.

Her Spirit and Her Legacy

To know Desiree was to know kindness, resilience, and joy. Her laughter was contagious, her smile welcoming, and her heart always generous. She never sought recognition for her good deeds; she simply delighted in helping others.

She had a deep affection for animals, especially cats and dogs, whose companionship brought her comfort over the years. Yet her greatest joy was always her family. Above all, her proudest role was being a mother. Desiree poured unconditional love into raising her daughter, Crystal Pack, leaving an extraordinary bond of devotion and joy that will live on forever in Crystal’s heart.

Desiree was known as the “favorite aunt,” a constant source of love, music, and warmth. She filled homes with the sound of Anita Baker and Stephanie Mills on Saturday mornings, reminding her family of the joy that could be found in simple moments. She touched countless lives with her kindness, her strength, and her love.

Her Transition

Desiree transitioned from this earthly life to her life in glory on Sunday, September 14, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Ross and Bertha Mae Hutchinson-Ross, and her brother, John Ross Jr. She is reunited with them, along with other beloved family members who welcomed her home.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted daughter, Crystal Pack, a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and all those whose lives were brightened by her presence.

A Final Reminder

Though her life was not a crystal stair, Desiree climbed with courage, laughter, and love. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and faith—a reminder to us all to love on our people, to be present, and to cherish the moments we are given.

The family would like to thank everyone for their love, support and prayers.