James Ballard

Jimmy was born just outside the city of Dallas in Gaston County on October 16, 1939 to the late Gilbert Alonzo Ballard and the late Addie (Brewer) Ballard. In addition to his parents, his son, Keith Ballard; brother, Glenn Ballard; and his sister, Carolyn Ballard Owens, also precede him in death.

A graveside service to celebrate Jimmy's life will be on Thursday, June 6, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Philadelphia Lutheran Church, 1900 Philadelphia Church Road, Dallas, North Carolina. The service will be officiated by Reverends Fain Famer and Steve Fletcher. Reverend Fletcher and his wife, Edna Fletcher share special music.

Survivors include his loving wife of 64 years, Virginia Ballard; sons Kevin Ballard, Gary Ballard and his wife Dawn and Terry Ballard and his wife Jennifer. Missing their grandfather are his grandchildren, Andra Thompson, Bethanie (Ballard) Clark, Brandon Ballard, Summer Ballard, Paxton Ballard and Avery Ballard. His legacy includes his great grandchildren Madilyn Ballard, Brody Ballard, Macayla Thompson and Landon Thompson.

Jimmy was best known for being a family man. He was a father of four boys and his career was a semi-truck driver for Overnite freight Company. Throughout his career, he won numerous awards for his safe driving and had a true love for what he did. After retirement, he had found a new calling for being a mini farm owner. He had Pigmy Goats, chickens, and even an emu. Of course, he also had a strong love for his dogs. Some family activities he enjoyed included camping and pitching horseshoes. Jimmy was a good man who provided plenty of memories for his family for them to look back on. He will be truly missed by all that had the pleasure of knowing him.

Fond memories of James and condolences for the family may be left at www.carothersfuneralhomedallas.com.

The staff of The Dallas Funeral home is honored to serve the Ballard Family