Founders of Samaritan Center

In Loving Memory of Reverend Robert J. Ross

Samaritan Center Founder Reverend Robert Joseph (RJ) Ross

We honor the life and legacy of Reverend Robert J. “RJ” Ross, who passed away on February 2, 2026. As one of the founding visionaries of the Samaritan Center in Elkhart, RJ’s belief in compassionate, accessible care helped shape our mission from its beginning.

Called in ministry to First Presbyterian Church in Elkhart, RJ established the Samaritan Center as a counseling ministry grounded in the unity of body, mind, and spirit — a commitment that remains at the heart of our work today.

His leadership and faith inspired a movement that grew beyond Elkhart, influencing Samaritan Centers across the country and around the world. We are forever grateful for his vision, his heart for service, and the strong foundation he built for The Samaritan Center’s continuing legacy.