She was born to the late Marshall and Mattie Alston on March 21, 1921 in Rush Springs, OK.
Lorena grew up in Lindsay and Wayne, OK. She worked as a waitress, hairdresser, substitute teacher, and then in sales. She was a very independent and shrewd business woman. Her husband’s career took her to many cities across the state of Oklahoma and Lorena volunteered her time and skills in each community from Paul’s Valley, Altus, Duncan, Hobart, Oklahoma City, and Edmond.
Lorena took pride in her appearance and was stylish in her dress. She loved to write songs and poetry about her life. In her own words she said she had “the best of life and worst of life, and every disappointment made her stronger to accept what would and did come her way”. She always said that without God and prayer she would never have been so strong. Lorena read the Bible daily and encouraged and prayed for family, friends, and always shared her strong belief in Jesus Christ.
She was preceded in death by her husband William Calvin Ballard; son Freddy Lester Dennis; daughter Edna Mae Dennis Garrison; great-granddaughter Terry Darlene Garrison; great-grandson Joseph Calvin Dodgen; and sisters Hazel Jensen and Mary Hildebrant.
Lorena is survived by her children Bonnie Ballard (Joe) Kennedy, Bob (Roxie) Dennis, and Larry (Lynn) Dennis; grandchildren: Melodie (Tony) Shannon, Joe Bob (Kim) Dennis, Mark Dennis, Treavor Dennis, Amie Kathryn Dennis, Tommy Dale Garrison, Terry Garrison, Amber Brook Garrison, and David Garrison. She also leaves behind many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, loving relatives and friends.
The family wishes to thank all who cared for Lorena over the last few years: Brightstar Home Care; the Staff at Brookdale Assisted Living (Edmond on Danforth); and Centennial Hospice.
A private family graveside will be held at Green Hill Cemetery in Lindsay, OK.
Arrangements under the care of Baggerley Funeral Home (Edmond, OK)
PALLBEARERS
Jeff Dodgen
Jack Dodgen
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