Ross L. Lamp

Ross L. Lamp, 81, a beloved and devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, counselor, and cherished friend, was called home to Heaven and embraced by his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on January 14, 2025. Ross was preceded in death by his dear wife, Linda, and his brother, Ray Lamp. He is survived by his brother, Ronald Lamp, and sisters, Marita (Terry) Clark and Lynda Lamp NewLand.

Ross leaves behind a loving legacy in his daughters, Jennifer (Doug) Neef and Wendy (Rich) Johnson; his grandchildren: Allison, Heidi, Holly, and Lucy Neef; Isabelle (Stephen) Vinczi, Aidan, Evelynn, and Andrew Johnson; as well as his “big-grandkids,” David, Laura, and Jonathan Neef, and Katie (Neef) Barber, and their spouses, along with seven great-grandchildren. He was also blessed with an honorary daughter and son-in-law, Rabi and Ransome Egunjobi, and their children, Jochebed, Jeremiah, and Jesse. He is fondly remembered by his nephews, niece, and countless friends.

Ross was born on July 10, 1943, to Ralph and Hazel Lamp in Wichita, Kansas, as one of five children. He attended school in Goddard, Kansas, where he met his high school sweetheart, Linda Kay Snodgrass. The two were married on August 15, 1964, and enjoyed nearly 59 years of marriage together. They attended Kansas State University, where Ross earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science and later completed a Master’s degree in Counseling and a Specialist degree in School Administration from Wichita State University.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1966 to 1968, achieving the rank of 1st Lieutenant. During this time, he served in Vietnam as a combat medic in the Medical Service Corps.

Ross dedicated his career to education and ministry, serving Christ in various impactful roles. He worked in the Wichita Public Schools for 21 years, beginning as a science teacher at Coleman Middle School (1968–1971), then as a teacher and guidance counselor at Metro Boulevard (1971–1980), and later as Principal and Head Teacher at Metro Meridian (1980–1989). He served as Headmaster at Central Christian Academy from 1989 to 1996, then transitioned to a ministry team role with Central Christian Church, where he was the Pastor of Benevolence and Pastoral Care from 1996 until his retirement in 2017 at the age of 74.

Ross understood his need for a Savior and trusted the Lord at a young age. He remained devoted to Jesus Christ and served Him throughout his life. Ross and Linda were charter members of Westlink Christian Church for many years. Later, they joined Central Christian Church where Ross was ordained as a Pastor. He also served as an Elder, helped start the His Helping Hands ministry and was a longtime teacher of the Carriers of the Spirit Sunday school class.

He loved studying the Bible and sharing it with others. Ross and Linda hosted numerous Bible studies in their home through the years, offering guidance and wisdom to individuals and couples, helping them strengthen their lives and marriages through God’s Word. Ross’s dedication, kindness, and incredible patience deeply touched those who knew him. His upbeat outlook on life revealed his trademark humor, which could consistently bring smiles and laughter, no matter the circumstances.

As a do-it-yourself enthusiast, Ross loved finding treasures at garage sales, estate sales, and auctions, and was always eager to use or share his discoveries. (We anticipate the Wichita garage sale market may take a measurable hit.) He dreamt up creative ways to incorporate these “amazing” finds into home projects or gifts. (Repurposed trophies were a favorite to encourage others!)

When their daughters were young, Ross and Linda started a home business, SugarPlum Toys, crafting handmade dollhouses and miniature clay houses to make it possible for their girls to attend Christian Challenge School. They lovingly invested their time by painting, fixing, and serving to encourage the students and staff while their girls attended. This hardworking entrepreneurial spirit continued years later when Ross helped Linda fulfill her dream of opening The Riverside Cup of Tea, a tea room that became a haven of hospitality, love, and friendship for staff and patrons alike. 

Ross was always a true, loving encourager of his wife, his children, and his grandchildren. He enthusiastically loved having grandchildren over to stay at their home and enjoyed designing and building castles, forts, stages, props, and treasure maps along with Linda as they planned and fulfilled many adventures with the grandkids. He relished the retelling of the stories they made together. 

Ross never really retired but continued caring, helping, and investing in those around him. The last decade of his life was marked by the loving care he gave to his wife Linda as her lung disease progressed, even to the point of needing a lung transplant. He savored the four “bonus years” the transplant gave them together before her passing 18 months ago. Although he dearly missed her, he continued trusting and praising the Lord with a heart of gratitude. He began looking forward to the Savior calling him home as well!

We rejoice that Ross is now in the presence of his wonderful Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ! He gave his life to the Lord, serving Him faithfully, loving people, and finding humor in every situation! He would want no credit and would say that it was truly a joy—and thus we say of his life: To God be the Glory!

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for His Helping Hands and Missions of Hope International (MOHI). Contributions should given to Central Christian Church and will be distributed as indicated on the gift. Thank you!