Hugh Alvin “Poppy” Ballard, 91, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, August 23, 2015 in Chesapeake, VA. Born on October 3, 1923 in Bozoo, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Grant and Eliza Ballard. Poppy was a retired veteran of the U.S.Marine Corps, where he served honorably for 20 years. After his military service, Poppy served for 30 years in the U.S. Civil Service at Marine Corps Base Quantico as a building inspector. When not working, he enjoyed square dancing, listening to music, and antique cars. Poppy loved to tinker with things, and, at one time, rebuilt a parlor grand piano. As a private pilot, he logged numerous hours in the skies above Virginia and North Carolina. Poppy loved God and people, and was a active member of Dumfries United Methodist Church, where he served faithfully as a Deacon. Most recently he attended Fredricksburg UMC. Poppy dearly loved his family and will be remembered for his compassion and acts of loving kindness. He will be missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Hazel Weaver Ballard of Chesapeake, VA; his daughter, Marci Camic and her husband, Jim of Chesapeake, VA; a step-son, Fred Ferguson and his wife, Betty of Peterstown, WV; a step-daughter, Carolyn McClaugherty and her husband, Danny of Chesterfield, VA; a granddaughter, Morgan Siegel; and grandson, Corey Camic; a great-granddaughter, Maddy; and many loving nieces and nephews,and three very special caregivers, Betty Painter, Rhonda Smith and Dianne Ross. The family would also like to thank Lisa Cain and Kim Godwin for their assistance in bringing peace, order and calm to our home. Poppy was predeceased by his first wife of 12 years, Garnet Ballard; six brothers; and one sister.
A memorial service will be held at the family residence Thursday, August 27, 2015 at 6:30 p.m. A funeral service with full military honors will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery. Please check back for updated service information.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to LifeNet Health Foundation or a charity of your choice.
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Thank you, Mr. Ballard, for your service to our country in the United States Marine Corps.
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Whenever I was in your presence you had a smile for everyone. I know how much your Family will miss you.Peace to all of you. Would love to be there to say a final farewell and hug your wonderful daughter. You are all in our prayers.
Love Maryann and gene
May God continue to be your strength in this time of sorrow. Remember the good times you all shared with your father and know that he has no more pain nor suffering. My family sends our love to you all.
Peace and Blessings
My deepest prayers and sympathies to the family. May GOD bless you with His peace.
Hugh was a great vibrant soul that now can say:
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. II Timothy 4:7-8 KJV