Philip Wendell Ball

He was born July 11, 1938, in Leakesville, Mississippi, a son of the late J.A. Ball and Pearlie Crager Ball. Following high school graduation Philip attended Jones County Junior College in Ellisville where he played trombone and was a member of the marching band.

After finishing at JCJC he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He was stationed on the U.S.S. Essex aircraft carrier and deployed to the Mediterranean as part of President Dwight Eisenhower's "People to People" program. As a member of the ship's band he took part in entertaining local crowds during each port period.

After returning home he continued his love for music and instruments and owned and operated Ball Music Co. in Pearl until his retirement.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by siblings, James A. Ball, Max Ball, and Barbara Jackson; and son, Chris Ball.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, JoAnn Butler Ball; son, Greg Ball (Patti); daughter, Leigh Ann Madden (Morgan); grandchildren, Jessica Cain (Jesse), Michelle Schultz (Jake), Alex Ball (Camryn); great-grandchildren, Allie Spears, and Jack Schultz; brother Gus Ball (Connie); sister, Jeanette Hendricks (George); and a number of nieces and nephews.

Private services will be held.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Ethel Walker Scholarship Fund at ussessexassociation.com.