Sidney Ballinger

Sid passed away at the age of 82 on August 6, 2026. He grew up in Chattanooga and graduated from Chattanooga Central High School in 1961. He played on championship football teams while at Central and was then recruited to attend McCallie School for a one-year football scholarship, where he graduated a second time in 1962. Sid then attended The University of the South for one year before joining the U.S. Air Force. In 1964, he married his high school sweetheart, Gail (nee Thompson) who became his steadfast companion for the next 62 years. After being stationed with the Air Force in Texas, Florida, Viet Nam, and California, he returned to Memphis State University (now the University of Memphis) and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration.

After graduating, Sid went on to lead a rewarding and successful career. Over the years, he worked in both sales and management for Congoleum Industries, Bandag Tire Company, Roadway Express, and finally as President of Fed Ex Ground Canada. This work allowed him to live in many parts of the United States and Canada including New Jersey, Michigan, Dallas, Chattanooga, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Birmingham, Memphis, Kansas City, Toronto, and Pittsburgh. In management, Sid was skilled at quickly making offices and organizations efficient and cost effective. In life, he was gifted at striking up conversations with strangers and quickly making friends no matter where he lived or traveled.

Sid and Gail retired to Vero Beach, Florida, and spent 20 wonderful years golfing 4 (or more!) days a week, boating, fishing, traveling, and spending time with friends. He and Gail moved back to Chattanooga in 2023 and settled in Ooltewah.

Sid is survived by his wife Gail, his daughter Susan, and three grandchildren,

Shea, Jude, and Kai. He is also survived by his sisters Becky Arnold and Suzanne Gardenhire, as well as 11 nieces and nephews. His family and friends will carry his memory forward.

The family will receive friends from 2-5 on Sunday at the Valley View Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, 7414 Old Lee Highway. A celebration of Sid's life will be held in the funeral home chapel at 5:00 PM.