Darci Ross
Former President

On the morning of June 19, 2002, after a long and diligent battle with cancer, CMG President Darci Ross passed away. She died at home, with her family by her side.

An inspirational and driving force at CMG, Darci's warm personality endeared her to the countless number of people whose lives she touched on a daily basis. She will be deeply missed.

Darci is survived by her husband, Scott, and their daughter, Sydney. She was 36 years old.

Memorial services were held on Saturday, June 22, 2002 at Leppert and Hensley Funeral Home in Indianapolis. More than 700 family and friends were in attendance. Mark Roesler's eulogy in her memory touched upon her impact on her family, friends and business associates.

Immediately following the service, a Celebration of Life reception was held at CMG Worldwide headquarters.

Donations in memory of Darci Ross can be sent to:

Babe Ruth Scholarship Program
PO Box 5000
Trenton, New Jersey 08638

Ruth Lilly Hospice of Clarian
PO Box 7168
Indianapolis, IN 46207

As President of CMG Worldwide, Darci Ross oversaw all aspects of managing, marketing and licensing more than 200 entertainment and sports personalities and corporate trademarks for domestic and international merchandising and advertising programs. She also maintained ongoing relationships with existing clients, and worked to aquire new properties.

An employee of CMG Worldwide for nearly 15 years, Ross said most people she met on her frequent travels were instantly impressed by CMG’s client list. "From Vince Lombardi, Babe Ruth, Jackie Robinson and Karl Malone to James Dean, Marilyn Monroe, and Buddy Holly, covering seven sports and nearly 100 famous personalities, our client list boasts the most impressive collection of sports and entertainment legends, past and present, of any licensing agency in the world. Clearly, the names and their respective accomplishments speak for themselves."

"When dealing with our living clients or the families of our deceased ones, I am not only aware of the mark the personality left on their respective field, but appreciate and admire their talent as well. This, allows me to then identify and pursue opportunities that may not be obvious to the casual fan."

Among some of the programs Ross was most involved with was the 50th Anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking baseball’s color barrier ("a milestone relevant well beyond the scope of sports") and the relationship with the Estate of Arthur Ashe ("a truly heroic man") that resulted in the United States Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York being named the "Arthur Ashe Stadium."

Ross’ other noteworthy accomplishments include the extremely successful Babe Ruth 100th Anniversary program, the development of CMG's consulting service, and the hands-on involvement of the logo designs for Babe Ruth and Jackie Robinson, as well as the First Five Baseball Hall of Fame anniversary program.

Ross felt that CMG's clients were an integral part of society, and not just for their entertainment value. "Many of CMG’s clients are more than just sports record-breakers or able to captivate and entertain an audience. People identify with them as their heroes and as sources of inspiration. To that end, my job in protecting and licensing the legacies they left becomes that much more important and fulfilling."

Darci Ross is featured in License! Magazine

Darci Ross featured in Indianapolis Business Journal

Please click on images below for a larger view.