Alvin Lynn "Al" Ross

Alvin Lynn “Al” Ross, 74, of Lufkin, Texas, passed away Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at home. Al was born on February 28, 1951, in Livingston, Texas, to Alvin Lawrence and Wilma Evelyn (Neal) Ross.

Al was a devoted husband and father who loved God, his family, his church, and his community. He always saw the best in others and was quick to apologize and forgive. He deeply cherished his wife, children, and grandchildren. An early riser, he was always ready to start the day the moment his feet hit the floor.

Al began his broadcasting career in high school and continued for more than 40 years. He often joked that he loved his job so much he would never retire - it was simply too much fun. Over the years, he worked at various stations in Livingston, Lufkin, Nacogdoches, Houston, Oklahoma City, Tulsa and Jacksonville, Florida, including KSBJ, KCBI, KILT, USA Radio Network, Marlin Maddux, KSWP, and KAVX. Early in his career, he worked in mainstream radio, playing rock and country music. However, after surrendering his life to the Lord, he felt a deep conviction that he could no longer play music that didn’t lead people to the only true hope - Jesus. His journey in Christian radio began with a weekend show at a station in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and from there, his passion for Christian broadcasting flourished. He loved programming for Christian radio, knowing he was part of a mission that brought life and hope to people every day.

In addition to his work in radio, Al felt called to ministry and served as Senior Pastor of Calvary Chapel Lufkin, later transitioning it into The River Lufkin, A Church for Whosoever. He led the congregation faithfully from 2013 until a debilitating stroke in 2022.

Outside of work and ministry, Al loved hunting, going to the movies, and traveling. He had a goofy dad joke sense of humor. A dedicated "Trekkie", he watched every Star Trek series and spin-off so often that it became a running joke at home - his family couldn’t help but become "Trekkies" too. He was also a huge fan of Superman, eagles, and was an avid reader. He seemed to bring home a new book every day, always eager to learn something new.

Al deeply loved his community and served with his whole heart. He was a proud member of the Lufkin Rotary Club, serving as President in 2016, and also served on the executive boards of LOVE Inc., The Salvation Army, and several other nonprofits over the years.

He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Michelle Ross; his children, Callie Johnson and her husband Michael with their sons, Carter and Wyatt; Jessica Ross with her sons, Christian and Samuel, and great-grandson Arthur; Aaron Ross and his wife Amy with their children, Adam and Rusti; Benjamin Ross and his wife Michelle, and his bonus children, Charles Brunner and Jessica Michelle with her children, Zachariah, Chloe, and Jesse. He is also survived by his brothers, Kenneth Ross and his wife Martha, George Ross and his wife Lois, and Jimmy Ross, along with many beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Wilma Ross.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to our daily caregivers, Terry Jo, Tabatha, and our faithful Sunday morning caregiver, John, as well as our faithful food providers, Judy and Susie. We are also deeply grateful to our River Church family, who mowed our lawn, covered us in prayer, and supported us from the very beginning to the end. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice, especially our beloved nurse Kim, aide Mrs. Linda, Chaplain Jason, and caring caseworker Traci for their compassionate care and unwavering support throughout the past year and a half.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, September 5, 2025 at Carroway Funeral Home. Al’s life and home going will be celebrated Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. in the Carroway Funeral Home Chapel, with interment to follow at Feagin Cemetery in Hortense, Texas.

Pallbearers will be Aaron Ross, Benjamin Ross, Christian Ross, Samuel Leach, Carter Johnson, and Wyatt Johnson.

Honorary pallbearers will be Adam Ross, Charles Brunner, Jerry Burford, John Torres, Carl Partin, and David Dallmeyer, Sr.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to KSWP/KAVX Radio at kswp.org or kavx.org.

Memories and condolences may be added, and live webcasting of the services may be viewed, at www.carrowayfuneralhome.com.

Carroway Funeral Home, Lufkin, directors.