Dolores Ross

In Loving Memory of Dolores Winters Ross

Dolores Winters Ross passed away peacefully at home in Buffalo, New York, on June 2, 2025, at 95 years of age.

Born on October 2, 1929, in Buffalo, New York, to the late Terry Nathaniel Winters and Virgie Neely, she was a proud product of Buffalo Public Schools. She attended School 75, graduated from Hutchinson Central High School, and continued her studies at Bryant & Stratton Business Institute.

Her professional journey included serving as an Administrative Assistant for the Office of the Faculty and Professional Senate at the University at Buffalo. She broke barriers as the first Black woman to hold a post with the Buffalo Sewer Authority Board. Later, she pursued her passion for art as the owner of Drawings and Sketches by DEL-OR-OSS, drawing portraits that touched the hearts of many.

A devoted member of First Shiloh Baptist Church, Dolores was lovingly referred to as the “unofficial artist” of the church, where she illustrated biblical scenes each week for the adult Sunday School class. She was also a founding member of the Northern Region Black Political Caucus and served as an Erie County Election Precinct Judge. Her service to the community was as impactful as it was humble.

Art was Dolores’s true calling. She once said, “When I stop to think about all the artwork I was able to put out there, to the many families and friends, I sincerely feel I have made many a person happy.” Her portraits grace the homes of families, politicians, and church leaders alike. Her influence and talent were widely recognized—so much so, it was often said, "You are somebody if you have an original Dolores Ross portrait."

In addition to art, she enjoyed singing, including being a part of the First Shiloh choir, and had once been encouraged by her high school music teacher to pursue a singing career. However, she chose to follow her artistic path instead. Known for her joyful spirit, she never missed a chance to dance, no matter where she was. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, she was active at the YMCA, drawing portraits in the senior room and staying fit alongside people a third her age.

Dolores is survived by her beloved sister, Mary Johnson; her children, Keith (husband of the late Tracey Ross), Kevin Ross, and Daryl Ross; her granddaughter Victoria Lindsay and her great granddaughter Ava Francesca Ramos, grandson Demarcus Tall; her cousin Charley Fisher III (Denise); niece Deborah Williams grandniece Elondra Williams; and a host of other family members and devoted friends.

Dolores was preceded in death by her sister, Mildred Haney (Frank), and her brother, John Winters (Carol).

Her life was rich in lessons and love. Kevin recalled:

“Once, I got a $15 dentist bill that I ignored for over a year. She told me, ‘They’ve spent more on postage than what you owe. Just pay it. Or call them. Don’t ignore it.’ That lesson stayed with me all my life.”

He also remembered when she drove ten miles on a flat tire after work when she had no other option. “No help. No excuses. She taught me independence.” Most powerfully, she showed him how one’s talents can move the world. “People treated her differently when she drew their loved ones. Hard men softened at the sight of her sketches. She said, ‘People treat you better when you use your gift.’”

Her life will be celebrated in a Memorial service on

Saturday, June 28, 2025

11:00 am – 12:00 pm

First Shiloh Baptist Church

15 Pine St.

Buffalo, NY 14204

Zoom Live Streaming services are available.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83654784978?pwd=wxinz0uaFcylua8aRSwKtEBcq9jJ24.1

Meeting ID: 836 5478 4978

Passcode: 982093

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in memory of Dolores W. Ross to the William-Emslie YMCA, 585 William Street, Buffalo, NY 14206. Contributions will support programs that provide a welcoming space for seniors to gather, connect, and thrive within the community

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”

— 2 Timothy 4:7 (KJV)

“Do what is right; then if men speak against you, calling you evil names, they will become ashamed of themselves for falsely accusing you when you have only done what is good.”

— 1 Peter 3:16

Dolores will be remembered always with love, gratitude, and joy. Mom cared a great deal.