Thomas C. Ross

funeral director and owner, Ross Funeral Home, Littleton, New Hampshire, and past president, New Hampshire Funeral Directors Association, died March 28, 2025, at age 83.

Ross graduated from the New England Institute of Anatomy and fulfilled his apprenticeship in Hanover and Concord, New Hampshire, before returning to Littleton to open Ross Funeral Home. He was introduced to the world of emergency medical services during his apprenticeship and later, began responding to emergencies in the Littleton area in his hearse. 

He accepted an invitation from the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons to participate in a pilot emergency medical technician (EMT) course at Harvard University. Upon completion of his studies, Ross became a charter member of the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians and instructed the first class of EMTs in the Littleton area. Moreover, Ross was instrumental in establishing the Firefighter Assist and Search Team (FAST) system in northern New Hampshire; he encouraged town governments to establish squads and assisted them in applying for federal grants. 

Nearly every organization Ross helped establish still operates in its community. He served on the Littleton Regional Hospital Board of Trustees and the New Hampshire Emergency Medical and Trauma Services Coordinating Board. He received countless accolades for his contributions to emergency medical services in New Hampshire.

Ross joined the Littleton Fire Department in 1964 and retired as the department’s chief in 1996. He was Justice of the Peace, serving the Littleton area as bail commissioner for decades. Additionally, Ross was an avid skier who was part of the patrol team at Cannon Mountain Ski Area and Mittersill Alpine Resort. He helped make the trails that many enjoy skiing today.

Ross is survived by son Todd, daughter Tammy and grandsons Andrew and Christopher.