Omer James Gross

Omer James Gross, 101 of Jonesboro passed from this life Tuesday, January 24, 2017 at St. Bernards Medical Center. He was born April 14, 1915 to George and Alice McGraw Gross in Pollard, Arkansas. Omer was in the Army during World War II. While serving he received World War II Victory Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, American Theater Ribbon, AP Theater Ribbon and two Bronze Service Stars. Also the Philippine Liberation Ribbon and one Bronze Star Go 23 USAFFE45. Omer is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Frank Gross and Fred Gross; sisters, Catherine Kirk, Cora Prince and Ora McKenney.

Omer was employed by McDonald Douglas/Boeing from 1951-1980. He worked on the Freedom 7 project, which was the first US Space flight piloted by Alan Shepard in 1961. Omer and his wife lived in St. Louis, MO from 1951-1991. He was a deacon at Parker Rd Baptist Church and a volunteer with Inner City Youth and First Baptist Church. He also hosted exchange students from Norway and Chile. Omer retired to Jonesboro in 1991. He was a member of First Baptist Church and volunteered in their food and clothing ministries

Survivors include his wife of 73 years, Pansy Mayo Gross of the home and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be Friday, January 27, 2017 at 9:00 AM in the chapel of First Baptist Church. Service will begin at 10:00 AM with Bro. Bruce Venable officiating. Burial will follow at New Hope Cemetery in Pollard, AR. with military honors.

Special thanks to St. Bernard’s Medical Center and Hospice for Special Care.

To register online, go to www.emersonfuneralhome.com