William Ross Gladden, Jr.

Mr. William Ross Gladden Jr., 80, died Saturday, September 9, 2023 at his home. A graveside service will be held 11:00 am, Thursday, September 14, 2023 at Evergreen Cemetery with Rev. Clint Davis officiating. Mr. Gladden was born March 4, 1943 in San Rafael, CA and was the son of the late William Ross Gladden, Sr. and Elaine “Ikie” Gladden. Ross was a 1962 graduate of Chester High School and a 1966 graduate of Gardner Webb. He was a veteran of the US Navy serving from 1960-1964 on the USS Bordelon during the Cuban Missile Crisis. On August 4, 1979, he married Ruth Shugart. Ross loved his four children and nine grandchildren immensely. He delighted in their lives and found joy in watching them grow. He loved to garden and enjoyed sitting outside whenever he could. He grew up at St. Joseph’s and later became a member of Purity Presbyterian Church where he was an Elder and Sunday school teacher. Ross will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife of over 44 years, Ruth Adele Shugart Gladden; four children, Chriss H. Flynn, Jr. (Angie) of Richburg, SC, Betsy F. McLaughlin (Derek) of Charleston, SC, Elaine Ramey (Eric) of Chester, SC and Roberta Weathers (David) of Greenwood, SC; nine grandchildren, Megan, Chriss and Ashley Flynn , Abby Grace and Cole McLaughlin, Ruth Ann and Aubrey Ramey, Walker and Caroline Weathers; one sister, Pam Carroll (Allen) of Lilburn, GA., and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sister, Patsy Gladden. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the charity of your choice in memory of Ross. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.barronfuneralhome.com