Ross "Brad" B. DeShong, 54, of Warfordsburg, PA, passed away unexpectedly along with his wife, Paula on Saturday, August 1, 2026. Brad enjoyed the happiest 10 months of his life this year after he married Paula Nicole DeShong on November 7,2025.

Brad was born March 22, 1972 in McConnellsburg PA. He was the son of Walter (husband of Deborah) DeShong, of Needmore, PA and Elizabeth (wife of Robert) Gouak of Warfordsburg, PA.

Brad's life was defined by service, strength, and an unwavering commitment to the people he loved. After graduating, he proudly joined the United States Marine Corps, serving his country during Operation Desert Storm and later sharing his knowledge and leadership as an instructor at Quantico. But those who knew Brad best will remember that his service did not end when he left the military. He was the person you could always count on, the first to answer the phone, the first to show up, and the last to leave when someone needed help. Through his construction business, his work with fellow veterans, his service in the Honor Guard, and the many charity rides he participated in, Brad spent his life putting others before himself. He enjoyed hunting, riding his motorcycle, and spending time with friends, but nothing meant more to him than his family. They were the center of his world and the source of his greatest pride. Whether sharing a meal, celebrating milestones, offering advice, or simply spending time together, Brad treasured every moment with those he loved. He found his greatest happiness not in accomplishments or recognition, but in seeing his family happy, supported, and surrounded by love. He was a devoted husband, a loyal friend, and a steady source of strength and support for those he loved. His kindness, generosity, and servant's heart touched countless lives, and the legacy he leaves behind is one of honor, compassion, and love. As we remember Brad today, we are reminded that, "A life truly well lived is measured not by what we gain for ourselves, but by what we give to others." By that measure, Brad's life was extraordinary.

In addition to his parents and stepparents, Brad is survived by his sisters, Dee DeShong (wife of Michelle) of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, and Rebecca Brady (wife of Michael) of Big Cove Tannery, Pennsylvania; his brothers, Seth Allen Gouak (husband of Sydney) of McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania, and Dwayne Lewis (husband of Brandy) of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. He is also survived by his daughter, Shayanna DeShong; his grandsons, Praxton and Orion Ramsey; a niece Willow Grace and his nephews, Caleb Lewis, Cohen Lewis, Sylas Brady, Oliver Brady, Joshua Gosnell, Brett Gosnell, and Brandon Gosnell, and his two dogs, Milo and Ottis.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at the Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc., McConnellsburg, PA from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

 Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc., McConnellsburg, PA, with Rev. Joshua Shadle officiating. There will be one hour of visitation held prior to the service on Wednesday. Interment will be at Pleasant Ridge Nazarene Cemetery, Harrisonville, PA. 

Military honors will be conducted by the Fulton Honor Guard.

Arrangements were made by the Howard L. Sipes Funeral Home Inc., McConnellsburg, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.howardlsipes.com.