Ross Coggins - Obituary

n August 1, 2011, Ross Coggins passed away at home in Annapolis, Maryland surrounded by his family and his treasured books. He was 83. Ross lived life with steadfast vision and displayed rare altruism, always employing an open mind and heart. He was born and spent his formative years in Texas. A graduate of Baylor University and Southwestern Theological Seminary, he excelled in several careers – as a Minister, Missionary to Indonesia, Regional Director for the VISTA Office of Economic Opportunity, Department of State USAID Representative to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture (working in Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean), and Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Administrator. Having traveled to over 70 countries around the world, his life was proof in word and deed that one man really can make a difference. While managing USAID’s grant programs, he dedicated himself to providing food, medicine, education, infrastructure, water purification, job training and hope to countless underprivileged people. He also organized and managed the US Government’s Africa Emergency Office, facilitating disaster assistance during famine outbreaks in Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia, and Mozambique. He extended his commitment to humanitarian work into his retirement years while serving with CRS, coordinating assistance programs. Tolerance, compassion, and peace were Ross’ guiding principles. During the turbulent 1960’s, he fought against discrimination and even marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He was very knowledgeable in politics and enjoyed vigorous political exchanges. In addition to his impressive philanthropic body of work, Ross was a brilliant and prolific writer who was exceptionally well-read. He wrote the book To Change the World and frequently contributed articles to prominent newspapers and magazines. A gifted communicator, he was often called upon to brief media, heads of state, and members of Congress, providing drafts and policy planning documents for the Secretary of State and other senior officials. He also wrote hundreds of great poems and the inspirational hymn, “Send Me, O Lord, Send Me,” the lyrics of which will reverberate and resonate for years to come as a call to service. Ross loved music and took tremendous pride in both his daughters’ accomplishments as professional musicians. His lasting legacy will encompass his loving devotion to his family and faith, his generosity, his nurturing spirit, his great intellect, his masterful poetry and writing, his ever-present sense of humor, and his tireless efforts to help the poor and suffering. Even during the most difficult days of his illness, Ross remained witty and engaging, often playing his harmonica in an attempt to lift everyone’s heavy hearts. He made us all laugh and made us better by challenging us to think on the deepest level. Thankfully his Bucket List was completed and nothing was left unsaid in his lifetime. He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed, but his indomitable spirit will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know him. Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Doris, daughter Cathryn O’Donovan and her husband Denis, daughter Joanna Bushnell and her husband Bob, and grandchildren Christopher Ross O’Donovan, Ross Bushnell and Kristen Bushnell. The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks for the many expressions of love, prayers, and support that were received during Ross’ illness. A private celebration of his life will be held on August 13, 2011. Memorial donations may be made to: Hospice of the Chesapeake, 445 Defense Hwy., Annapolis, MD 21401 or to a charity of your choice.