Joyce H. Ballard

"Joyce H. Ballard 85, a resident of Frost, went to be with her Heavenly Father on June 25th, 2018 surrounded by her family. Joyce was born on May 23, 1933 in Frost. She grew up in Livingston and graduated from French Settlement High School. Joyce married Cecil R. Ballard of Springfield, July 23rd 1951. They were married 40 years and blessed with three children and a host of grand and great grandchildren. Joyce was a home maker most of her life yet managed to work for JC Penny and eventually retire after 20 years. Joyce was a member of Central Baptist Church of Baton Rouge for 50 years where she was actively involved in various ministries. At the time of her death she was a member of the First Fundamental Baptist Church of Livingston the very place from which she began her walk of faith. From her youth until her death Joyce remained faithful to her Saviour Jesus Christ. She possessed a sweet and encouraging spirit which is attributed to her reliance on the promises found in Psalm 37. Joyce enjoyed traveling, music, playing the piano, crocheting, quilting, crafting, attending bible study or anything related to church, and spending time with her family and friends. Joyce is survived by her daughter, Patsy Brown (Earl), Cecil Ballard Jr (Susan), 11 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandson. She is preceded in death by her parents Jesse Hardy and Elvie Taylor Hardy, her husband Cecil R.Ballard Sr; son, Raymond Neil Ballard; granddaughter Windy Dianne; and brothers Elliot "Pete" Harrell and Otis Jesse Hardy. Visiting hours are Thursday, June 28th from 6 pm-9pm at Rabenhorst East. Visitation will resume at First Fundamental Baptist Church Friday, June 29th from 9:00am-11am until the Memorial Service at 11am. Burial will be at the First Fundamental Baptist Church Cemetery. Leading the Memorial Service will be her son, Pastor Cecil Ballard Jr. Pallbearers: Grandsons, Chris Head, Jesse Ballard, Joseph Ballard; Great Grandsons JC Head, Hunter Lockhart and Ryder Lockhart. The family wants to thank LifeSource Hospice nurses, aides and staff for the care they provided to Joyce in her final days. 2 Timothy 4:7, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith..."Joyce was a faithful Christian. She lived her life in the image of Christ and was a wonderful example to all.