William Lewis Ross, beloved husband of over 50 years, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother, passed peacefully away on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2012. He lived his life to the fullest, touching so many with his quick wit, lively, and often ironically playful banter, along with his boundless compassion and generosity. He loved his family above all else, those directly related and those he considered family. His laugh, smile, and constant joy, when around those he loved, will be forever missed and always remembered when thinking of him.He proudly served as a major in the U.S. Air Force, a Vietnam War veteran receiving many commendations and was honorably discharged upon retirement in 1978. Never one to fully retire, he served as an Okaloosa County Sheriff's deputy and community volunteer where he continued to serve and protect. He was also a 28 year Friend of Bill W. He is pre-deceased by his parents, Edward Bellamy and Helen Katherine; and his older brother, "Bud." He is survived by his wife, Evelyn; children, Ed and Donna; grandchildren, Michael, Alex, Scott, and Marie; great-grandchild, Haylie; brother, Hugh; and sister, Mary.Viewing will take place at the Emerald Coast Funeral Home located on Racetrack Road on Thursday, Sept. 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. The memorial and military service will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, Fla., on Friday, Sept. 14, at 11:45 a.m. Flowers are welcome at the viewing and his chosen charity is St. Jude's.Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at www.emeraldcoastfuneralhome.com.