Stafford (Stan) Wayne Ballard was born on July 31, 1937, to the union of the late Ivan Ballard and Jessie Mae Richards in Lake Charles, La. He went home to be with the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 12, 2013.
Stan received his early education in Lake Charles, La., and in Los Angeles before entering the United States Army, where he served three years as a combat construction engineer.
Stan accepted Jesus Christ at the early age of eight years old, being baptized at Evergreen Baptist Church in Lake Charles, La. Upon relocating to Oxnard, Stan became a member and a Deacon at Evangelistic MBC, Port Hueneme, where he served as Chairman of the Deacon Board and Moderator of the Church. He served with great passion as a Bible teacher, Superintendent of Sunday School, New Member's instructor, and in many other leadership capacities, as well as a member of several choirs.
Stan's thirst for God's Word lead him to attend Channel Islands Bible College and Seminary, where he obtained a Bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies, a Master's degree in Ministry and became a Certified Spiritual Counselor. In 1995, Stan was joined in Holy Matrimony to Edie Koontz-Ballard, at which time they joined their families and enjoyed many years of love, laughter, sharing, genuine caring, and devotedness. Words from one of his daughters are as follows:
When I think of my father, Stan, the first word that comes to mind, FUN! I can't think of a time shared without his infectious laugh, great smile and his ability to light up a room with his one-of-a-kind humor. Even in his weakest moments throughout his illness and in great pain, he had the uncanny ability to say one word or make one gesture and bring everyone to hysterical laughter. Dad was my personal hero, always willing to listen with undivided attention as you poured out your heart and offering sound advice on any subject. His attributes were endless and I know that many of you that truly got to know him were blessed beyond measure.
He wholeheartedly accepted everyone on their own merits and shared mistakes of his past on similar subjects endlessly pouring his wisdom into each of his children. I know each one of us treasures something unique about his words and his ability to speak into our lives without making you feel inadequate. In fact, his ability to speak to anyone on any level is a true testament of his character. He came to know the word of the Lord so effortlessly he would just open up the Bible and there it was...his word backed up in scripture. Dad, I love you with all my heart and I will miss you forever, our long phone conversations during my morning or evening commutes to work and most importantly your fervent prayers.
Stan was an icon to all who had the pleasure of meeting him.
Stan was retired after 25 years from Hostess Cake-Wonder Bread, where he was employed as a manager and sales representative.
Stan leaves to cherish his memories: His devoted and loving wife, Edie Koontz-Ballard; mother, Maude Ballard; brothers: Dr. Lynn Simon (Gayle) of Baton Rouge, La., Mr. Leslie Simon of Washington D.C., Mr. Lloyd Simon of Baltimore, Md., and Dr. Jock Simon of Salisdury, Md.; sons, Curtis Ballard (Audrey) of Los Angeles, Wayne Roche ( Katrina) of Duarte; stepson, Darrell Koontz of Oxnard; daughters, Pam Carson (Michael, Sr.) of Long Beach, Rynell Ballard of Downey, Sonya Ede of Los Angeles; as well as grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and numerous other relatives and friends. Visitiation will be held Friday, January 18, from 3 to 8 p.m. in the chapel of Funeraria del Angel Conrad's & James Reardon.
A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, January 19, at 10 a.m. at Bethel AME Church, 855 South F street in Oxnard, pastor Torrence K. Nivens officiating. Burial will immediatley follow at Ivy Lawn Memorial Park, Ventura. Please visit our website at www.funerariadelangeloxnard.com, 487-4911.
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