About Us

About Us

The doors of Ross Mortuary opened to serve the public in the Fall of 1938, at which time it was known as Brooks and Ross Funeral Home. Located at its present address, 3618 Lyons Avenue, the original building was a five-room framed house which was converted into a funeral home.

In 1939, co-owners of Brooks and Ross Funeral Home, Burnett and Helene Ross, became sole owners of the Funeral Home and renamed it, Ross Mortuary. That same year Mr. and Mrs. Ross expanded their business to include an emergency ambulance service. This lifesaving service was the first of its kind. The ambulance service provided assistance primarily to the African American community in Houston’s Historic Fifth Ward area.

By 1953, with a growing and continuous client base, there was a need for expansion. The original building was remodeled and a second story added.

During the ten years that followed, the rapid growth of business caused a greater need for a larger and more modern establishment. In August 1964, the old building was completely demolished to make way for progress. The new edifice, would be handicapped accessible, with fifteen rooms elaborately furnished and arranged for a quiet and efficient service. The chapel would allow a seating capacity of 220, with a covered breezeway which could protect families from outside elements. The new building was debuted in the Spring of 1965.

As a new generation of the Ross Family began to emerge, in 1973 the Mortuary was elevated to an Incorporation to allow for further grow, management modification and inclusion.

After the passing of Mr. Ross in 1984, his wife, Helene became owner, and management responsibilities became the duty of their daughter, Burnell Ross Loche and son-in-law, Edward C. Loche. Mrs. Ross remained active in the business until her demise in 2002.

Today, under the ownership and management of Edward & Burnell (Ross) Loche, Edwina Loche Barrett and Edward C. Loche II, Ross Mortuary, Inc. has seen even more growth and widespread progress. Ross Mortuary, Inc., as a small business, employs over 40 full time and part time employees, occupies and owns a well maintained 6,000 square foot building that sits on two acres of land, as well as some surrounding properties. Ross Mortuary, Inc. and its staff services over 350 families each year and maintains its reputation of being a family owned and operated business. Although there have been changes throughout the years, one thing remains constant, our dedication to our clients, our community, our employees, and our 77 year old motto, 

“Service of Distinction.”