Billy Ray Ball

Billy Ray “Bill” Ball, 75, of Douglass, Texas, passed away peacefully at home of natural causes on October 22, 2025. Born on January 8, 1950, in Houston, Texas, Bill lived a life defined by kindness, humor, and hard work. The son of the late Milbert and Billie Joe Ball, he grew up with a strong sense of loyalty and diligence—traits that guided him throughout his life and service to his country.

A proud veteran, Bill served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Puget Sound, earning the respect of his fellow sailors through his dedication and good-natured spirit. After his service, he devoted himself to his family, finding joy in simple pleasures—fishing with his son, watching his grandsons play baseball, working on old cars, and sharing quiet evenings on the front porch with Carol.

Bill is survived by his sons, Billy Ray Ball II and Kris Ball, and their wives, Jana and Leslie Ball; his sisters, Carroll Brittain and Sheryl Fry; brother-in-law, Mark Fry; grandsons Nathan Ball, Brett Ball, and Luke Ball; granddaughters Camille Ball and Kimberly Whitlow; great-granddaughter Sophie Ray; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Milbert and Billie Joe Ball.

Graveside services will be held on November 8, 2025, at Douglass Cemetery in Douglass, Texas.

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.’”

— John 11:25–26