JIMBO
As I’ve mentioned to you all before, there are certain legends in this Town that need not a full name to know who they are, and James “Jimbo” Ross is on that list. Jimbo passed away this week at the young age of 62, and it’s a sad time for North Castle. If someone mentioned Jimbo’s name, you wouldn’t hear someone say “Jimbo who?” And for those of you who are new to Town, you missed out on a real treat of a man.
He grew up in this Town and lived and worked here most of his life. Next time you’re in Schriefer’s Deli, scan that great wall of pictures and look for the two young boys begrudgingly standing in suits but appear as though they won’t be in them for long. That’s the Ross brothers, Jimbo in front and his terrific brother Dougie (and a first name legend himself) behind him. A recent picture of them is below, Jimbo on the right. They patrolled the line of scrimmage in High School football here, they proudly gave decades of their careers to your Highway Department and Armonk Volunteer Fire Department, and our Town is better for it. Jimbo’s two boys, Michael and Robert, turned into two fine and respectful young men – no surprise.
After Jimbo retired, sort of, he drove the Town’s kids to school as a bus driver, and loved it! (Even though the candy and lollipops he gave the kids weren’t always appreciated by the parents – LOL). He also probably detailed half the cars in Town as well. He then started driving a truck, moving construction material, etc., and I’d see him many a morning as he’d stop and chat from the road as I walked my dogs through Town at 6am. He would tell me he couldn’t be happier and felt great, even though his health was giving him problems. He lived across the street from me for many years with his stepmom Ida, another one-name legend in Town. My kids had the pleasure of getting to know Jimbo’s sweet and kind side, always looking to help when he could, and of course offering treats!
Jimbo was not shy with his opinions about all things Town-related, and as a Councilman and then Supervisor, trust me that I always got an polite earful, but I wouldn’t trade those moments for anything - he even told me he’d run for Supervisor one day (he probably would have won).
Many towns have a Jimbo, but North Castle had the best one. May he rest in peace and hope that he takes his show to heaven. We’ll miss you Jimbo.
