William McDonald Ballard, 87, of Virginia Beach passed away August 29, 2011. Born in Norfolk, he was predeceased by his wife, Nell Ferguson Ballard, his parents, Leon and Gertrude Ballard, and his sister, Miriam Anderson. He is survived by his daughters Lynne and Dana Ballard, and a son, Bill Ballard. He had a deep love of family members, especially Orene and Paul Blum, Melody and Gary Hartranft, Kurt Hitke, and Pat Wilson.
Mr. Ballard was veteran of WWII serving in the Army Air Corps. A graduate of the University of Virginia he later established his business as an Independent Insurance Broker. Mr. Ballard had a love for travel, sailing, big band and jazz music. He was also known as a gifted raconteur.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, September 14, 2011 at 3:30 p.m. at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 8100 Granby Street in Norfolk. Following the service, the family will receive friends in the Fellowship Hall of the First Church of God, 8600 Granby Street.
Please leave the family a message of condolence via the on-line guestbook.
Thank you for your service to our nation Mr. Ballard.
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To Bills Family, My name is Kelley Freeman and I have known your dad for what must be all of my life. He and your Mom were friends of my parents Billy & Betty Freeman and I remember lot’s of fun trips and times with them. I have home video still of myself with them as well as you guys on the beach, You’re father was such a kind, gentle man ( I know I don’t need to tell you all that ). I haven’t seen him in several years but will miss him dearly.
Our condolences to you all, Kelley & Betty and the rest of our family.
We are so sorry about Bill’s passing. He was a great neighbor and a best friend. Always a gentleman and fun to be around. As a sailing buddy, we had many adventures on the Chesapeake Bay and Caribbean Sea. We hope he is on his sailboat in the sky and that he has fair winds to his back. We will miss him so much. Our sympathy to the family. Bill and Carolyn
Billy, Dana, and Lynne: We are both so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. He raised a great family and had a good life. What more can a man ask for? Know that we’re thinking of you at this sad time and will say a prayer for your parents, and you all.
Craig and Pat,
Charlottesville, VA
To Bill, Lynne and Dana, I’m so sorry for your loss. Please accept my deepest condolences in this difficult time. I remember visiting with your dad when I thought “King” was on site. Though Bill wasn’t there, your dad couldn’t have been more hospitable and kind. God bless and keep you all.
Bill, Dana and Lynne,
I am very sad to hear of your father’s passing. Both your Mother and Father were very kind to me when I visited their home and I was even fortunate enough to spend a day with them (and Bill) sailing many year’s ago – very memorable for me. gob bless each of you and your Father as well. Chris
Please accept our most sincere condolences at the passing of your father. Bill was the BEST and we enjoyed many a sailing trip with him and have a lot of fond memories. He will be greatly missed.
Though I never knew your father, I know that you all will greatly miss him. The loss of a father is like that; its like the loss of a great leader only he’s your leader.Its like the loss of a close friend,for only he could be both friend and confidant. Its like the loss of a part of you, for he, at times, knew the sum of all your feelings even when you were confused by single circumstances. My thoughts are with you in the same knowledge that has comforted me found in John11:25 spoken by Jesus Christ:”I am the resurrection, and the life, he that believes in me,though he were dead, yet shall he live…”. We who mourn can find comfort in Christ.
We are sad to hear of your dad’s passing. Take care
Dear Lynne,Dana and Bill,
Our condolences to you during this sad and sorrowful time. Your Dad was always kind to me. I’ll remember him as a quiet, generous man and honor him as a brave veteran. May he rest in peace.
Bill and family,
We are saddened to hear of your loss. Although unable to see you this day, We hope that you can find peace and comfort in the coming days.
Darrell & Debbie