Ira Ross

Ira Franklin Ross, DDS, 89, of St. Petersburg, Florida, formerly of South Orange, New Jersey, died October 1, 2009, noted periodontist, lecturer, author, professor NYU Dental School and NJ College of Medicine and Dentistry, where he served as Chair of the Periodontics Department. He was appointed to the NJ State Board of Dental Examiners, and was a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. In retirement, he wrote, narrated and produced Opera for Everyone, a series of CD's that were sold in bookstores, and distributed free to music educators world wide. He was a member of the Academy of Senior Professionals at Eckerd College (ASPEC) and a dedicated philanthropist. His family was his greatest joy. He is survived by his wife of nearly 64 years, Helene Strousse Ross, his daughters Dr. Margaret Ross Link (Dr. David Link), Laura Roth (Alan Roth), and Elizabeth Ross (William O'Reilly) and his grandchildren Benjamin Link (Becky Genberg), Dr. Nathaniel Link, Rebecca Link, Dr. Rachel Roth, Michael Roth, Julia Roth, Alexander Ross O'Reilly, and Samuel Ross O'Reilly. Their grandfather was dearly beloved. A memorial service will be held in St. Petersburg, FL in November. Donations may be sent to Gulf Coast Jewish Family Services, Inc., 14041 Icot Blvd., Clearwater FL 33760 or to the St. Petersburg Free Clinic, Inc., 863 Third Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. David C. Gross Funeral Home is serving the family. Service Information