Master Sergeant Robert Norman (Bob) Ross, An Airman's Story

Master Sergeant Robert Norman (Bob) Ross, An Airman's Story

Master Sergeant Robert Norman (Bob) Ross

Born October 29, 1942 - Died July 4, 1995

Sergeant Robert Norman Ross was born on October 29, 1942, in Daytona Beach, Florida, and raised in Orlando.

In 1961, at the age of 18, Bob Ross enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served as a medical records technician and later became the First Sergeant of the Air Force Clinic at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. Over his 20-year career, he rose to the rank of Master Sergeant before retiring in 1981.

While stationed in Alaska, Ross was inspired by the rugged landscapes around him. After seeing Bill Alexander’s television program, The Magic of Oil Painting, he began studying painting under Alexander’s guidance. This passion carried beyond his service and became his life’s work.

After retiring from the Air Force, Bob Ross created the PBS series The Joy of Painting, which aired from 1983 to 1994 and continues to rerun today. Many of his landscapes were drawn from his memories of Alaska.

His trademark permed hair, initially a cost-saving choice, became an iconic part of his public image, though Ross himself was never fond of it. His gentle, calming voice was also a deliberate choice, as he once said that after years of shouting in the Air Force, he never wanted to raise his voice again.

Outside of art, Ross was fond of country music and remained a beloved, humble figure to his fans.

Bob Ross passed away on July 4, 1995, at the age of 52, after a battle with lymphoma. He is buried at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Gotha, Florida, where his grave continues to draw visitors from around the world.

His legacy endures through The Joy of Painting, which still airs on PBS stations and online platforms, continuing to inspire generations of artists.

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About the Author
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller traveling through life

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