For Liz and Garrett Ross, life on Isle of Hope is as natural as the tide. Their days often begin on the water and end surrounded by family — two daughters, a handful of pets, and more than a little laughter.

Garrett, 40, owns and operates Flex Appeal Charters, a local fishing charter business he launched in 2015. Known for his uncanny instinct for finding fish, he’s built a reputation as a skilled captain and teacher who helps others experience the thrill of casting lines in local waters. Liz, 39, works at Georgia Eye Institute alongside another Isle of Hope resident, Dr. Matthew Deich. A steady hand in her role as an ophthalmic medical assistant, she balances her professional life with her deep love for animals — especially her flock of chickens, which trail behind her in the yard like feathery shadows.

The Rosses met at a New Year’s Eve party in Alaska, where Garrett was stationed with the Air Force and Liz had grown up. The two married soon after and welcomed their first daughter, Chyler, before returning to Garrett’s hometown in 2009; after a year of house-hunting, they settled into their home in July 2010.

Their daughters are carving their own paths. Chyler, 18, attends Georgia Southern University and works part-time at David’s Bridal, balancing studies with her passion for roller derby as a member of the Savannah Derby Devils. Stella, 13, is an eighth grader at The STEM Academy, where she’s currently focused on volleyball after years of competitive swimming. She hopes to attend Savannah Arts Academy next year.

The family’s love for the water runs deep — Garrett and Stella have even taken home trophies from local fishing tournaments. When they’re not out on the boat, the Rosses enjoy dining at Tequila Town, Asian Fusion, and Castaways, attending events like the Summer Pavilion Series and the Art and Music Festival, and working out together at Fit Sandfly.

At home, the Ross household includes their golden retriever Tripp, a Pekingese named Precious, three cats — Mahi, Morticia, and Winx — and a small menagerie of fish and shrimp tanks. “It’s lively,” Liz joked, “but it feels like home.”

Garrett donates several charter trips each year to local charities, while Liz has served on multiple nonprofit boards. Together, they’ve instilled in their daughters a sense of gratitude and giving back.

One of their fondest family memories involves a summer rainstorm years ago, when the girls were small. They took to the streets in matching shirts, rescuing frogs and dogs from the puddled roads. “It started as a walk and turned into one of those nights you never forget,” Liz said.

Fifteen years later, that same spirit — care for their neighbors, for nature, and for one another — continues to guide their life on Isle of Hope.