Bob Ross, 1952–1995 The world mourns the passing of Bob Ross, an icon in the art community, whose bright nature, inspirational messages, and keen knowledge of oil painting, made him a leader within the medium. His ability to transform a blank canvas into a shimmering work of art in a mere three-hour-period inspired many, and he will be dearly remembered by the millions of viewers who enjoyed his art. Throughout his career, Bob dedicated himself to sharing the joy of art with the world. His television series, The Joy of Painting, ran for over a decade, captivating audiences worldwide and cultivating an enthusiasm for oil painting around the globe. Bob was born in Daytona, Florida in 1952 and raised on the Gulf Coast. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he spent 20 years teaching heavy-equipment operators the joys of painting landscapes. Upon retirement, he and his family moved to Orlando, Florida, where Bob began his rise to fame. Bob Ross is survived by his four sons, grandchildren and his wife, Jane. He left a legacy of art work, an unwavering dedication to his craft, and most importantly, a message of kindness that will forever be remembered.