Ross Hugh Shivers

Ross Hugh Shivers, known affectionately as Buddy to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2024, at the age of 83 in Palestine, Texas, due to natural causes. Born on November 14, 1940, in Lott, Texas, Ross was a man whose presence was as large and warm as the state he called home.

Ross was the beloved son of Ansel Ross Shivers and Ruby Ilene Shivers, both of whom preceded him in death, as did his brothers Gary Shivers and Millard "Jeff" Shivers, and his sister Glenda Heiber. His legacy is carried forward by his devoted wife of 30 years, Laura Shivers, and his loving children: daughters Michelle Bless (Bobby), Christal Carter (Wade), and Misti Yorgensen (Robert); sons Rick Shivers (Shari) and John Camp (Andi). Ross's sister Carol Moore, brother Edward Shivers (Lana), and sister-in-law Lynn Shivers, along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, will forever cherish his memory.

A proud Texan through and through, Ross was an all-star basketball player at Marlin High School. His talent on the court earned him a scholarship to Baylor University.  At that time, Ross was the tallest player Baylor had ever signed, standing 6’9”.  He later transferred to McMurry University, where he continued to play basketball and majored in business.  Ross's professional life was as diverse as it was successful. He worked in sales across various industries – insurance, auto parts, sporting goods, oilfield supply, and aerospace fasteners – in Texas, Alabama, Louisiana, and Oklahoma. His commitment to public service was exemplified through his time as a correctional officer for the State of Texas. Entrepreneurial in spirit, Ross also owned The Hog Pen, a BBQ restaurant in Palestine, where he shared his love for Texas cuisine with the community.

Family was the cornerstone of Ross's life. He cherished every moment spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, imparting wisdom and sharing in their joys. Ross's love for music filled the homes of those he loved and the many gatherings he graced.  His passion for barbeque went beyond the restaurant; he spent many years on the competition BBQ circuit with the Hot Stuff BBQ team. A true Texan, Ross enjoyed watching football and was an avid follower of the Dallas Cowboys, college and Texas high school football, a pastime that brought him much excitement every year.

Ross's friends and family will remember him as a friendly, wise, and optimistic man. His ability to see the good in every situation and his readiness to offer a helping hand were traits that endeared him to many. Ross had the rare gift of making others feel at ease in his presence, and his laughter was a sound that many will miss dearly. He never met a stranger and seemed to run into friends everywhere he went.  In recent years, one of his favorite daily activities was swapping stories with his Whataburger breakfast club buddies.

As we honor Ross's life, we reflect on the countless memories and the indelible impact he had on everyone he met. His legacy is not only in the successful businesses he built or the accolades he received as an athlete but most importantly, in the love and guidance he provided to his family. His was a life well-lived, full of passion, dedication, and an unyielding love and commitment to his loved ones.

Ross Hugh Shivers's life story is one of joy, resilience, and the unwavering strength of the human spirit.  As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we take comfort in knowing that his spirit will continue to guide and inspire us. Ross's journey on earth has ended, but his story will be told for generations to come, a testament to a life that was as generous as it was full.

Ross now rests peacefully with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, leaving behind a legacy of love, friendship, and the warmth of a life that touched so many. He will be profoundly missed, yet forever remembered in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

We love you BIG, Pawpaw!

The family will honor Ross’s life with a celebration of life service on Saturday, the 15th day of November 2024 at Trinity Church, 526 Benbrook, Palestine, Texas. 

Cremation services for Ross Hugh Shivers are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit his online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with his family.

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