Ross Lowell Jarrard

Ross Lowell Jarrard, age 93, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2026, at Lakeview Assisted Living, surrounded by his loving family. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Lakeview Assisted Living for the compassionate and loving care they showed Ross and his family during his time there.

Ross was born on August 20, 1932, in Nashville, Michigan, to Keith and Marie Jarrard. As a boy, Ross worked on the family farm and graduated from Nashville High School. During high school, he participated in drama club and played football through his junior year. His football career ended before his senior season when his father caught him smoking behind the barn — a story Ross always shared with a smile.

After graduation, Ross spent some time working at The Bliss in Hastings, Michigan, before joining the United States Navy. He proudly served two years stationed in Cuba.

Following his military service, Ross began a career with the Kellogg Company in Battle Creek, Michigan, where he worked as a machinist for more than 35 years. During his retirement party, Ross reminded his boss that when he first started at Kellogg, he had been told, “I’ve only got eight days of work for you.” His boss laughed and replied, “That’s right — and when I get eight days of work out of you, I’m letting you go.” Ross absolutely loved telling that story — especially the punchline — and, true to form, he would usually repeat it two or three times just to make sure everyone got the full effect.

During his years at Kellogg, Ross also served on the board of the Kellogg Credit Union.

It was at Kellogg where Ross met the love of his life, Joan Phillips. They were married for 64 wonderful years. Together they built four homes, raised four children, and created a life centered on faith, family, and hard work. Their family grew to include 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Ross and Joan enjoyed 34 wonderful years of retirement together, spending time golfing, bowling, traveling with friends, and making memories with family.

A devoted man of faith, Ross served as both a Deacon and an Elder at Pennfield Presbyterian Church, where he and Joan were longtime members of the congregation. He was also an active member of the community, volunteering for the local food bank.

Ross loved spending time in his woodshop, where he crafted furniture, rocking horses for his grandchildren, and countless handmade treasures that will continue to be cherished by those who loved him. He loved a good joke and was known by family and friends as quite a character, always ready with a story, a laugh, or a playful comment that could brighten the room.

Above all else, Ross was a devoted husband, beloved father, treasured grandfather, and loyal friend. He will be remembered for his quiet strength, humor, generosity, craftsmanship, and deep love for his family.

Ross was preceded in death by his parents, Keith and Marie Jarrard; his brothers, Jim and Joe Jarrard; and his sister, Gladys.

He is survived by his wife, Joan Jarrard; his children, Jenny (Tom) Poll, Jeff (Michelle) Jarrard, Lisa Needham, and Sue (Tom) Kaupa; along with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and many dear friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Pennfield Presbyterian Church on June 17, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Personal messages for Ross’s family may be shared at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.