James Franklin Ballard

James Franklin Ballard, 84 years and five months, died January 19, 2014, at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des, Moines, IA.

James Ballard was born in Putnam County, MO, on August 19, 1929, the son of R. B. and Nora (Robbins) Ballard. He attended Fife country school and graduated from Unionville High School with the class of 1947.

During the Korean War James joined the United States Marine Corps in August 1952. He was discharged in August of 1954 and joined farming with his father. He remained a Marine in spirit throughout his life.

James was united in marriage to Nelladean Baldock on December 5, 1954. To this union three children were born, Dianne, Tracy, and Jim.

James was a big sports fan with a special love for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Green Bay Packers. He loved farming and enjoyed his cattle. James was an avid reader, especially World War II history. He served on the Union Township road board for several years. His greatest joy was his five grandchildren and was always very proud of them.

James is survived by his wife, Nelladean, of Centerville, IA, daughter Dianne Ballard and companion Jeff Underwood and Tracy Morris and husband Bill, all of Centerville, IA, and a son, Jim Ballard and wife Renee of Urbandale, IA. He is also survived by his five grandchildren, Beth (Jerrett Wiltsie), Katie, Alec, Cole, and Jade.

James was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services for James Ballard will be at Playle and Jones Family Funeral Home in Unionville, MO, at 1:30 on Wednesday, January 22, 2014, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Rev. Brian Hargrave will conduct the service with Kevin and Brenda Collins singing “In the Garden.” Casket bearers will be Gary Staggs, Ronnie Cook, Roger Crawford, Johnny Dixon, Josh Wells, and Bill Morris. Honorary bearers will be Donald Norris, Robert Norris, Larry Probasco, James Durbin, and Dr. Fon Owings. Interment will be at the Unionville Cemetery, Unionville, MO.

Memorials are suggested to Hospice of Central Iowa, Centerville, IA, and may be entrusted with Playle and Jones Family Funeral Home, 709 S. 27th St., Unionville, MO 63565.