William Augustus Gross Jr.

William Augustus Gross Jr., lovingly known as Bill, Billy, or Bill Gross Jr., left us on May 24, 2025, at the age of 82, after a valiant battle with cancer. He was born on October 5, 1942, in Troy, NY. 

Arriving in 1959, Bill spent many years in Alamogordo, NM, leaving behind a legacy rich in photographs, music, poetry and love. A multifaceted soul, Bill's life was a symphony of creativity, kindness, and quiet reflection. Driven by an innate love for the arts, Bill's heart was forever tuned to the rhythm of his father's footsteps. A lifelong musician, Bill followed the beat of his father, William A. Gross, as a talented percussionist. His passion for music saw him play with numerous bands, including his first, The Del Mar’s "The Movin Sound" Rock 'N' Roll and the acclaimed Roger Young, and The Yellow Rose Band. His collaboration with famed musician and producer Norman Petty (of Buddy Holly & The Crickets fame) and the great Larry Trider are only a few highlights of many from his career. Bill was a self-taught guitarist and bassist. 

A gifted photographer and poet, Bill was published many times in those fields. His images and verses captured the subtle beauty of life, marked by his unique perspective and quiet disposition. As a member of several poets and photography societies, He enriched his community with profound words and imagery. Beyond his artistic achievements, Bill was a compassionate spirit, spending years helping stray kitties find homes, feeding the homeless, and offering his wisdom and wit through letters that would inevitably bring a smile. 

In lieu of flowers, should one wish to make a donation to Animal Protection NM or Kitty City, it will be greatly appreciated by Bill Jr and the kitties. 

Bill's parents who preceded him in passing, William A Gross and Janet G Gross. Bill's immediate family include his siblings, Lorraine Testa, Leslie A Sanchez, Toby T Gross, Gerry L Gross, and Nanci Williams. He joins his brothers in Heaven, Harvey Benjamin Gross and Kim Jong-Koo Gross in a discussion about good music. Bill was fortunate to have loving cousins in Tina, Henry, Liz, and Sky Whitney as well as sister-in-law, Elaine Ward. Bill had many nieces and nephews who will miss his wonderful cards and letters while very much missing him. 

Celebration of Bill’s Life will be held from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Saturday, June 21, 25025, at the Otero Arts Building, 1118 Indiana Ave., Alamogordo, NM 88310. Casual conversation, poetry readings, music, and storytelling will be accompanied by light refreshments. All are invited to read Bill's poetry or play a song. As Bill would say, “Onward Through The Fog.”

The Gross family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home.

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