Maxine Moore Ballard

Maxine Ballard, 73, passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 27, 2025, at her home in Grimes, Iowa. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 11am at Weerts Funeral Home; visitation will be before the service starting at 10am. Burial will be at Oakdale Memorial Gardens following the service. Memorials in Maxine’s name may be made to the University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children's Hospital. Friends not able to be in attendance may watch the service via livestream at: https://vimeo.com/event/4897297/55ca1f41a6

Born on October 8, 1951, to Elmer and Rachel Moore in Tallulah, Louisiana, Maxine lived a life marked by grace, determination, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community.

A proud graduate of Reuben McCall Senior High School, she continued her education at Grambling State University, earning a degree in Speech Pathology. Her thirst for knowledge led her to pursue a Master's degree in Human Resources from Western Illinois University, a field in which she would leave a lasting impact.

Maxine’s career was distinguished and dynamic. She held numerous leadership roles, including HR Manager, HR Director, and HR Vice President. As an entrepreneur, she co-founded Ballard & Moore Consulting Firm and Ballard Management Group, as well as her own company, M&M Enterprises. Her expertise and passion for people also extended into the political sphere, where she played a significant role in many local and state elections.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Maxine was a woman of many passions. She had an impeccable sense of style and was rarely seen without a stylish handbag—especially her beloved Coach and Anne Klein purses—or a pair of elegant heels. She found joy in shopping, reading, and collecting fine china, teapots, figurines, and unique keepsakes. Maxine’s warmth, wisdom, and eye for beauty were evident in all aspects of her life, and she will be remembered for her generosity, her keen intellect, and the love she poured into those around her.

Maxine is survived by her devoted husband, James Ballard Sr., to whom she was married for 52 years; her loving children, Shalanda Ballard of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and James Ballard Jr. (Sarah) of Bettendorf, Iowa; and her cherished grandchildren, Lauren Ballard, James Ballard III, Cameron Ballard of Bettendorf, Iowa, and Jayda Ford of Minneapolis, Minnesota. She also leaves behind her dear sisters, Katherine Davis (Victor) of Bossier City, Louisiana, and Joanne Williams (Daniel) of Fort Worth, Texas, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and close friends who will forever treasure her memory.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Rachel Moore, and her siblings, Bobbie Fort, Elmer Moore Jr., Dorothy Moore, and Tommie Moore.

Maxine’s legacy of love, strength, and elegance will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.