Peter Moodey Ross, respected employee, advisor

Peter Moodey Ross passed away Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025. Pete was born Jan. 26, 1940, and was raised in Meadville, Pa., by his parents, Julian and Carol Ross.

He graduated from Allegheny College in 1961 and received his MA from Southern Illinois University in 1962. Pete first worked in Arlington, Va., in the Office of the County Manager. In 1966, he began a lifelong career in Delaware. He began his governmental career at the Division of Urban Affairs at the University of Delaware. He then became the chief administration officer of New Castle County. Pete then moved to the Controller General's Office for the State of Delaware and stayed for 17 years. In 1995, he was named state budget director by Gov. Tom Carper. He retired from that position and returned to the University of Delaware, teaching and researching in the graduate program. At the request of Gov. Ruth Ann Minner, Pete again served as the state budget director. He retired from that position and returned to the University of Delaware. He finally did retire and began enjoying life with his family and at his beach house in Lewes.

During his career, he served on numerous financial advisory committees for local government, school districts and other governmental agencies. He was twice awarded the Order of the First State, the highest civilian honor bestowed on a Delaware citizen. He was a member of the Delaware Financial Advisory Committee and served several terms on the Delaware Compensation Commission. Upon his retirement, the News Journal said, "In addition to his phenomenal knowledge of government operations, Pete Ross is respected as one of the best staff people ever in Delaware."

Pete loved his family and leaves to honor his memory his wife, Liz; daughters Sue (Bob) Newman and Amy (Bill) McCormick; daughter-in-law Melissa Ross and sister-in-law Carol Kolmerten. He was preceded in death by his dearly beloved son, Christopher. He also leaves his grandchildren Ross (Hannah) and Megan Newman, Brant McCormick, and Lauren, Alexis and Dylan Ross. He leaves one great-grandchild, Rowan Newman.

Interment will be private. Contributions to honor Pete’s memory may be made to Autism Delaware, 924 Old Harmony Road, Suite 201, Newark, DE 19713, and online at autismdelaware.org/ways-to-give.

Visit Pete's Life Memorial at parsellfuneralhomes.com.