Viva Lee Ballard

Viva “Vi” Lee Ballard, 86, passed away Monday, September 16, 2013 in Abilene. Graveside services will be 11:00a.m., Friday, September 20, 2013 in the Cedar Hill Cemetery under the direction of Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 542 Hickory St. Visitation will be Thursday from 6:00 to 8:00p.m. at the funeral home.

Vi was born November 28, 1926 in Coleman, Texas, the daughter of E. H. and Effie Hutchens Ray.

A devoted wife and mother, she was also the long time business owner of Abilene Employment Service, from 1980 to 2003. She loved her flower garden and working in her yard. Her cooking will be missed by her family and friends. Vi was a Baptist.

Mrs. Ballard was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gilbert H. Ballard; two sisters, Myrtle Gregory and Lillian Alvey; three brothers, Marion “Buddy” Ray, Eugene Ray, Jr., and Marvin Robert Ray. Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law, Gilbert L. and Karen Ballard of Abilene; grandson and his wife, Kevin and Katherine Ballard; three great-grandchildren, Tyler, Jack, and Kaylee Ballard; five nieces, one nephew; and her puppy dog and longtime companion, Baby Doll.

Memorials may be made to Rescue the Animals, 5933 South 1st St., Abilene, TX 79605.