Shirley Jean Ballard

Shirley Jean Ballard, 95, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 20, 1930, in Osceola, Missouri to Charles and Bonnie Wisner.

Shirley married Marion Robert Ballard on July 4, 1948, in Osceola, Missouri. They were blessed with 69 years together before Marion passed on October 24, 2017, at the age of 93.

Shirley and her family moved to Columbia in 1952 after Marion began a job with the University of Missouri. A dedicated homemaker in her early years, she later worked for J.C. Penney Company for over twenty years.

Shirley was an active member of Westside Christian Church and then Blue Ridge Christian Church serving in various capacities. She enjoyed spending family time at their cabin at the Lake of the Ozarks. During retirement, Shirley and Marion developed a passion for volunteering at The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri for over 10 years.

She is survived by her daughter Sharon Brim (Bob) of St. Charles, son Roger Ballard (Susan) of Columbia, daughter Rita Millner (Rob deceased) of Nokomis, FL, daughter Tami Firsick (Brian) of Fenton, eight grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at Memorial Funeral Home in Columbia. Visitation begins at 11:00 a.m. followed by the service at 12:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery in Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri or Central Missouri Humane Society.