Vigils and memorials have been held for members of the Ross family, reflecting the grief and love shared by their communities. The recent tragic death of 12-year-old Leo Ross has united thousands, as attendees filled churches for prayer vigils aimed at supporting his family through this unimaginable loss.
Two prayer vigils took place at Christ Church in Yardley Wood and St Peter's Church in Hall Green, attended by hundreds of well-wishers. The gatherings occurred just one day after West Midlands Police charged a 14-year-old with Leo's murder and other unrelated assaults. The alleged killer, whose name cannot be revealed due to his age, was remanded to appear before Birmingham Magistrates' Court on the following Monday.
Sunday's services aimed to provide solace and strength to Leo’s family and friends. St Peter's vicar Martin Stephenson poignantly addressed the somber atmosphere, stating, "Our hearts, and our prayers, our love pours out for his family and friends." The churches invited attendees to lay flowers and light candles, providing heartfelt tributes to the young boy who had been described as "lovely and bright" by his school, Christ Church C of E Secondary Academy.
Leo tragically died from injuries sustained during what appears to have been a violent incident as he walked home through The Shire Country Park. The school confirmed the boy charged with his murder was not one of its students, and the community has rallied behind Leo’s family during this dark time. A GoFundMe page established to support The Daniel Baird Foundation—an anti-knife crime initiative—has raised close to £10,000. The foundation, named after 26-year-old Daniel Baird who was fatally stabbed years prior, seeks to raise awareness about knife violence and promotes the use of publicly accessible bleeding control packs.
Meanwhile, the passing of other Ross family members—Ross Eric Loeb and Jennifer L. Ross—has also brought outpourings of love and loss. Ross Eric Loeb, 68, of Avon, passed away on January 23, 2025. He was the beloved husband of Eleanor "Dolly" Loeb, and was known not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his deep devotion to family. Raised in Baltimore, Ross earned his BS from the University of Maryland and worked as a project manager for NIC Systems, where he excelled and felt appreciated.
His family remembers him as someone who cherished spending time with his children, often assisting with their school projects and coaching soccer. For Ross, quality family time was sacred, as he would travel hours just to share moments with loved ones, and weekends were dedicated to dog parks with his pups, Marley and Rosie. He had an endearing personality, quick wit, and generous spirit, bringing laughter and joy wherever he went.
Ross's memorial gathering is set for January 28, 2025, from 4 PM to 6 PM at Carmon Funeral Home & Family Center, where friends are invited to share their memories and stories about him. The family has requested donations be made to World Central Kitchen, providing food during disasters, highlighting Ross's generosity and desire to help those less fortunate.
Jennifer L. Ross, 45, whose obituary indicated she had passed away on January 21, 2025, just days before her husband, was also remembered fondly. Described as a "beloved wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend," Jennifer was known for her warmth, contagious laughter, and the positive energy she radiated. Born on January 19, 1980, she lived much of her life surrounded by family and friends who adored her.
Jennifer grew up in North Billerica, MA, graduating from Billerica Memorial High School and making her home alongside her husband, Gary Ross, and her beloved cat, Isabelle, in Lewiston, Maine. Her family emphasized the importance of her love for swimming, the beach, and spending time with them, particularly during Sunday phone calls with her parents. Her career spanned over 25 years at the Ninety-Nine restaurant, where she was beloved by staff and regular patrons alike.
With her passing, Jennifer leaves behind somber memories and the love of her family, including her parents, siblings, and many nieces and nephews who will forever cherish the moments they shared together. The family has also requested donations be made to local animal shelters or cancer research, reflecting Jennifer's caring nature and kindness to animals.
The deaths of Leo, Ross Eric, and Jennifer Ross remind the community of both the fragility of life and the strength found within familial bonds. Friends, family, and community members come together to support one another, creating spaces of remembrance and tribute. The love and memories will not fade; instead, they will continue to shine brightly within all who were touched by their lives. Each story shared contributes to their legacy, ensuring they are always remembered for the joy they brought to the world.