James E. “Jim” Ballard, 86, of Marysville died quietly at his home Friday morning, April 16, following a prolonged illness.
He was a 1953 graduate of Marysville High School and joined the U.S. Army the following year.
He was stationed in Germany for two years after the Korean war. He also attended Bliss College, studying to become a CPA.
He married the former Verna B. Andrews on Sept. 7, 1954 and they renewed their vows on Jan. 3, 1996. This year, they would have been married for 67 years.
He enjoyed music; he sang and played guitar and was in his high school band.
He farmed most of his life and was good with auto mechanics and working with his hands.
After retiring from Denison Hydraulics, where he worked from 1964 to 1998, he and his wife enjoyed many trips across the U.S. in their RV to visit church conventions, family and friends. He also continued to enjoy playing his guitar.
He had a love for the Lord, was a member of a home church in his community for many years, and occasionally held services in his home, as well.
He was born April 8, 1935 in Madison County to the late Lewis E. and Mary M. Ingle Ballard. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Forest “Red” Ballard, and a sister, Linda Scottie.
He is survived by his loving wife, Verna; their children, Suzanne (Dannie) Thompson, Lewis (Rachel) Ballard and Jon Ballard; nine grandchildren; and sisters Betty Poling, May Parrot, and JoAnn Owens, and many special friends.
A private funeral service will be held for the family at Ingram Funeral Home. Public graveside services will be held at noon Wednesday at Oakdale Cemetery with Carlton Schooley, Dora Gilmore and Carol Stephens officiating and the Union County Honor Guard providing military honors. Due to COVID-19, there will be no repast.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ingramfuneralservice.com.