J. Lee Ballard

A member of the Cherokee nation, he was born in Tahlequah, OK on August 14, 1927, a son of the late William (June) and Johnnie Lee Whitehouse Ballard.

A WWII veteran serving with the US Navy Seebees, as Electrician’s Mate Third Class, Mr. Ballard was on his way to Japan when he was diverted to Guam just days prior to the atom bomb drop that soon ended the war.

He received his Bachelor’s Degree from Northeastern State College, was a member of the Free and Accepted Masons and was an active member at Bear Lakes Country Club in West Palm Beach, Fl.

While residing in Florida, he was a member of Village Baptist Church in West Palm Beach.

Mr. Ballard was retired from Consolidated N.D.E., an industrial radiography firm that he owned and operated. Lee enjoyed traveling the world, meeting new people through his passion for golf, and promoting his business endeavors.

Survivors include his wife, Elaine I. Ballard, whom he married December 21, 1947; a daughter, Deborah Dryden and husband, Paul of Charlotte; four grandchildren, Paul E. Dryden and his wife, Kathleen of Charlotte, Christopher Dryden and his wife, Christine of Charlotte, Brian Ballard of New Jersey and Jason Ballard of New Jersey; six great grandchildren, Gabriel, June, Beatrice, Patrick, Eric and Lily.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Bruce R. Ballard and a brother, Bill Ballard.

Memorial services are planned for 11:00 am Saturday, September 27, 2014 in the chapel at Wilson Funeral & Cremation Service, 5301 Albemarle Road, Charlotte, NC 28212, with Military Chaplain, Captain USN (Retired) Young Chang Ha officiating. Friends may visit with the family one-hour prior (10:00-11:00) to the services and immediately following the services where refreshments will be served for a continued time of fellowship and remembrance.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region, 1420 E 7th Street, Charlotte, NC 28204; The First Tee of Charlotte, encouraging young people to enjoy the sport, 2661 Barringer Drive, Charlotte, NC 28208; or Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201.

Online condolences may be made at www.wilsonfuneralservices.com