John Ballard

John was the sixth of nine siblings born to Lawrence and Una Mae Ballard in Hale County, Alabama (Newbern). His mother and father preceded him in death. Four siblings, Reverend Lawrence, Lovell, Reverend Samuel and Preston all preceded him in death.

John accepted Jesus Christ as his savior in his youth and united with the Mount Valley AME Church in Hale County, Alabama. John attended Newbern Jr High School.

Moving from Alabama to Illinois, John met Sue and from this relationship two children were born. John Jr preceded him in death.

John worked at Midland Metal Corporation. John believed in helping his neighbor at any cost, he was just a kindhearted person.

John met and married Marie and to this union two children were born. John John preceded him in death.

Later in life John fell in love with Ellen Watson, they married and to this union five stepchildren were added.

John leaves to cherish his memories: Three children, Ernest, Jennifer, and Kimberly; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; three sisters, Idella Bryant of Newbern, AL, Dorothy Nelson of Berkeley, IL, Ula M. Ballard of Oak Park, IL; one brother, James Ballard of Newbern, Alabama; a godson, Horace Pannell; a devoted Goddaughter and Caregiver, Cassandra Crestwood; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.