Ray Ballard, of St. James, formerly of Ness City, went to his Heavenly home on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. He was 85 years old.
He leaves behind his wife, Janice Ballard of St. James; two sons, Greg Ballard and wife Susanne of Crossett, Ark., and Steve Ballard and wife, Stephanie, of Rolla; a daughter, LeighAnn Carpenter and husband Daniel of Rolla; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind a sister, Betty Calloway, of Kentucky, and her family.
Ray had a full family life and loved his family with all his heart. He was a dedicated husband, Daddy, Grandpa, and Great-Grandpa. Oftentimes a man of few words, everyone still knew he had a strong love for Jesus and shared that love with his family and friends. He enjoyed teaching the Bible, especially the book of Revelation. Ray was an Army veteran and served his country proudly, based out of White Sands, New Mexico.
Working in education for more than 40 years, as a teacher, coach, professor, and administrator, Ray had a positive influence on an innumerable number of people. His favorite educational occupation was that of being a teacher and a basketball coach, where his humorous, highly intelligent personality seemed to shine, making him a favorite teacher and coach for so many.
Born and raised in Kentucky, loving and watching the University of Kentucky Wildcats basketball team play was a requirement in his household. No matter what else was showing on TV, if the Wildcats were on, that came first.
Even though we know he is truly in a better place, Ray, Daddy, Grandpa, and Great-Grandpa will be greatly missed by all who were blessed to have been part of his life. We have the comfort of knowing that, as long as we are Christians, we will be together again with him in Heaven someday.
A small military veteran honors memorial service and internment will be at Fort Leonard Wood Missouri Veterans Cemetery on Monday, July 21, 2025.
Cremation services were under the direction of Rolla Cremation and Memorial in Rolla. www.rollacremation.com
