Builder’s Legacy Will Help Assure Kids’ Futures

A planned gift from the late Richard “Dick” Ross, a Florida businessman, will help to assure a bright future for generations of at-risk youth.

At the time of his death in October 2002, Ross had arranged for his entire estate to benefit Eckerd Youth Alternatives (EYA) and The Salvation Army of St. Petersburg, Fla. Both organizations will receive equal shares of the annual interest from the “Richard Ross Trust.”

“Dick was an old world’s craftsman,” said Robert Moler for the Ross estate, who met him in 1979. “We were very close. He was like a father to me.”

Ross built many things while residing in Pinellas County, Fla. He owned Daisy Construction, which developed Pantry Pride stores (also known as Food Fair) and J.M. Field shopping centers, many of which included Eckerd Drug stores. He also built an airplane, a helicopter and a sailboat. He even ran a farm in Pasco County, Fla., just north of St. Petersburg, that included cattle, dogs, birds and monkeys. The builder, originally from Connecticut, retired in 1975.

Ross also built a relationship with EYA Founder and Florida entrepreneur Jack Eckerd, who was building drug stores in shopping centers in the early 1970s. They talked about EYA and Ross, impressed, came to respect his work with young people.

“He thought what Mr. Eckerd did for kids had such value that he structured his gift with Eckerd youth in mind,” said Moler.

“It’s as if Dick and Mr. Eckerd were kindred spirits,” he said. “They both believed in kids and charitable organizations.”

With no living relatives, Ross established an approach to giving that could last for years, to be managed by Moler.

A substantial donation like Ross’ will support EYA’s general operating fund and help countless children.

Remember the kids in your estate plans.
Consider a gift that may last forever, or, for more information, please contact the EYA Development Office:
funddevelopment@eckerd.org or 1-800-554-4357, ext. 536.