of Harrison, AR

August 13, 1934 - July 24, 2023

James Ballard, age 88, of Harrison, Arkansas passed from this life into eternity on Monday, July 24, 2023. He was born in Denver Colorado on August 13, 1934 to James F. Ballard and Velma Lee Hawkins Ballard.

James was known for his corny sense of humor and his infectious laughter. He could laugh over absolutely nothing and have you laughing so hard you would not be able to catch your breath. He loved his beautiful gardens, wood working and oil painting. He loved to watch Bob Ross on Saturday mornings and dream of his next painting masterpiece. With all of his beautiful heart, he loved is wife of 59 years, his five daughters, 8 grand children, 6 great grand children plus one on the way. He enjoyed keeping up with everyone through calls, video calls and photos. He was known as "Big Al" to his local great grandchildren and he got tickled every time they called him by his special name. He loved Jesus more than anything and was a member of the North Side Church of Christ in Harrison, Arkansas. He was steady in his faith until he put his hand in THE hand of his Savior as he entered Heaven. He worked as a sheriff's deputy in Houston, Texas, was in the Navy reserves for 10 years and he retired from TRW Mission Manufacturing in Houston, Texas after a 30 year career as the manager of Computer Operations. He moved to Arkansas after his retirement, where he enjoyed the beautiful nature around him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, James F. Ballard and Velma Hawkins Ballard; his sister, Edna Ballard and his son in law, Joe Rodriguez.

He is survived by his wife, Sharon Ballard; his daughters, Robin Rodriquez, Cheryl Walker (Embree), Jaymie Williams (John), Susan Martin (Wayne) and Leah May (CE); eight grandchildren and six great grand children. He leaves behind many friends, but his best friends, Ed and Grace Beaulieu, were never far from his mind and were always on his heart.

There will be a private family memorial in Texas at a later date.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Coffman Funeral Home
923 Highway 65 North
Marshall, AR  72650
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com