Mr. Ray D. Ballard, 78, passed away Friday, December 6, 2024, at Witham Memorial Hospital in Lebanon, Indiana. He was born on March 2, 1946, in Lebanon, a son of the late Raymond F. and Melba Rose (Dziggel) Ballard.
On July 11, 1970, he was married to Janice (Heflin) Ballard in Lebanon; she survives.
Ray was a 1965 graduate of Granville Wells High School. After graduation, he attended IBM School and then served his country honorably in the United States Air Force from 1966–1970, stationed in Germany.
Upon his return from service, Ray worked as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service until 1992. In addition, he owned and operated Ballard Farms, providing hay and straw to Boone and surrounding county farms from 1981–2006. There was a period of time, he was employed at the White Castle in Lebanon as well.
Ray was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who loved his family dearly. He loved to play Poker, Word Search puzzles, watching soccer and all his dogs over the many years. His grandkid’s dog Izzy would often run down a path through the field mowed by Ray just sit with him in his chair or ride around the farm in the utility ATV.
In addition to his loving wife of 54 years, Ray is survived by a son, Aaron Ballard/Amy Ballard of Lebanon; three grandchildren, Austin, Arika, and Aubrey; a brother, Don (companion, Annie Marshall) Ballard of Montezuma; a sister, Rose Ann Jones of Frankfort; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, David L. Ballard; and sister, Sharon Kay Comer.
No public services are planned. Myers Mortuary and Boone County Crematory have been entrusted with the care of his cremation. Ray will be inurned at Old Union Cemetery, rural Jamestown, at a later date.
The Family would like to thank the entire staff at Witham Hospital and Brighton Hospice Care for their exceptional service during this difficult time.
Memorials may be directed in his memory to the charity of the donor’s choice.
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