[1][2][3][4] When initially established in 1918, Ross-Clayton was located on 111 Monroe Street, which at the time was the hub for Montgomery's black-owned businesses,[5] Robert Ambers Ross, an insurance agent for Mississippi Life Insurance and a prominent undertaker, partnered with William Clayton.

[12][13] The funeral home supported the movement by providing transportation for black voters and participating in the Montgomery bus boycott,[14][15] conduct class for colored wardens, with E. P. Wallace, serving as the instructor, at Ross-Clayton's South Union Street location.

The funeral home also offered its facilities for meetings and events,[16] including hosting renowned artist Bill Traylor.

[20] In 2011, the state of Alabama erected a historic marker in front of the funeral home, acknowledging its significance.

[25][24] In December 2021, the Ross-Clayton Funeral Home board of directors named his daughter, Dr. Sharon A. Ross[30] as president.