Nelladean Ballard

Nelladean Ballard

Nelladean Ballard, 80, of Centerville, IA, (formerly of Unionville, MO), passed away at Mercy Medical Center in Centerville, on Sunday, September 28, 2014.

Nelladean Baldock Ballard was born in Unionville, MO, on February 27, 1934, the daughter of Ralph and Gladys (Ryals) Baldock, who preceded her in death. She graduated from Unionville High School in 1952. Nelladean attended Chillicothe Business School briefly before the death of her mother called her back home to care for her Dad. She married James Ballard on December 5, 1954, and he preceded her in death on January 19, 2014.

Nelladean and James lived and farmed in northern Putnam County for nearly 35 years. Nelladean lived the life of a farmer’s wife, helping James on the farm, raising their three children and being the glue that held the family together. She was a wonderful cook, especially with baked goods. She loved to work in her flower garden and she was an avid reader. She was the perfect mom who always took time to listen, help with homework, and be the foundation of the family. She also found time to read mysteries and she loved her cats. Her children feel very lucky to have had her as a mother.

Nelladean is survived by her daughters, Dianne Ballard and her companion Jeff Underwood of Centerville, IA; Tracy Morris and her husband Bill of Centerville, IA; and a son, Jim Ballard and his wife Renee of Urbandale, IA. Five grandchildren also survive: Beth, Katie, Alec, Cole, and Jade.

Funeral services for Nelladean will be held at Playle and Jones Family Funeral Home in Unionville, MO, at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, October 1. Visitation will be from 4:00 – 6:00 PM on Tuesday, September 30, 2014. Interment will be at Unionville Cemetery in Unionville, MO.

Memorial contributions are suggested to HCI Care Services and may be entrusted with Playle and Jones Family Funeral Home, 709 S. 27th St., Unionville, MO 63565.