Retha Lee (Rooks Phipps) Ross

The Golden Gate stood open, He saw you needed rest,

God’s garden must be beautiful, For He always picks the best.

Retha Lee Ross, a beacon of warmth and kindness, was born on Thursday, July 2, 1936, in Skippers, Virginia, to the late Enoch Rooks and Viola Banks Young.

Retha received her education in the Greensville County, Virginia school system and was an active member of Jerusalem Baptist Church in Skippers, Virginia, until her relocation to Richmond, where she united in Christian Fellowship with Trinity Baptist Church.

A skilled baker, Retha contributed her talents to Dot’s Pastry Shop, Richmond’s premiere bake shop. Following the acquisition of Dot’s Pastry by Ukrop’s Supermarkets in 1976, Retha continued to serve on the decorating team. Her delicious cakes, pies, and cookies became a cherished part of family celebrations, shared with joy by many. In addition to her culinary talents, Retha had a love for deep-sea fishing, exploring the waters of Newport News, Hampton Roads, and Norfolk, Virginia. She often returned with a cooler full of fresh fish, including Croakers and Spots, delighting her neighbors with her generous gifts.

On Tuesday, January 9, 2024, while in the comfort of her home, Retha peacefully entered eternal rest in Charlotte, North Carolina, surrounded by the love of her son and daughter-in-law. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister, Pearlie Mae Hicks, and three brothers, Jeremiah Young, Robert Lee Young and Charlie C. Young. Also preceding her in death was a special, devoted friend, Helen Lee.

Left to cherish the precious memories of Retha are her two children - son, Gregory A. Phipps (Lemair) of Charlotte, NC and daughter, Yvonne Phipps Scott of Emporia, VA. She is also survived by three sisters, Daisy Y. Scott and Shirley I. Hicks both of Emporia, VA and Eveline R. Garrett of Chesapeake, VA. Her memory is further carried by four brothers, William Young (Sandra) of Richmond, VA, William N. Rooks, Alfred Rooks and Reverend Alvin R. Rooks all of Portsmouth, VA.

Retha leaves a legacy through her five grandchildren, Tiffany Scott (Chris) and Stephanie Scott (Tyrique) both of Emporia, VA and Alex Phipps, Tristan Phipps, Micaela Ugwuneri (Joshua) all of Charlotte, NC; six great-grandchildren, Chravon, Chramari, Kristalyn, ChraMonte, ChraVonte Richardson and Tristen Tinsley all of Emporia, VA, will forever hold her in their hearts.

Retha’s memory is also cherished by her very special cousin, Mary Rooks Smith of Gaston, NC, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In honoring her life, we reflect on the love and generosity she shared, and may the warmth of her spirit continue to touch the lives of those who were fortunate to know her.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mrs. Ross' tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide

"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"

to the family of Mrs. Retha Lee Rooks Phipps Ross.

 "Diligent in Business; Fervent in Spirit." - Romans: 12:11

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