Barbara Bartram Ballard, 76, of Owensboro, Kentucky passed away Tuesday, June 14, 2023, at her home. She was born May 5, 1947, in Williamson, WV to the late Howard Bartram and Phyllis Tucker Bartram.
Barbara was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She worked alongside her husband, Michael Ballard, Sr. in many endeavors over their fifty-seven years of marriage. The first endeavor was Ballard’s Grocery in Stanley, Kentucky, then moved on to create Ballard Construction Custom Homes. The first home they built, by their own hands, was the house they still live in at present. Barbara put the beautiful finishing touches on the homes they built, by being a master wood finisher and painter. She was a talented artist, painter, and cake decorator. Most of all, Barbara was always there with a smile, hug, joke, and the best advice for her family and friends. Her infectious giggle will be sorely missed.
Along with her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her brother, Larry Bartram.
She is survived by her husband, Michael Ballard, Sr; her sister, Charlotte (Martin) Murphy; two sons, Michael “Mike” (Stephanie) Ballard, Jr., and Brent (Melanie) Ballard; her grandchildren: Hailey, Logan, Brandon, and Molly; her great-grandchildren: Zepplin and Rylee; and many cherished nieces and nephews.
A Funeral Mass will take place at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at St Peter of Alcantara Church. Burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Visitation will be Friday, June 16, 2023, from 3:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M., at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home and Crematory, and again on Saturday, June 17, 2023, from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service at St Peter of Alcantara Church. Prayers will take place Friday, June 16, 2023, at 6:00 P.M. at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home and Crematory.
The family wishes to give special thanks to Melanie, her daughter-in-law and caregiver, for over three years. Melanie had no prior medical experience, before completing specialized training to administer dialysis to Barbara, in the comfort of her home.
Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory is both honored and privileged to be entrusted with the care of Barbara Ballard. Leave your messages of condolence for the family of Mrs. Ballard and sign her virtual guestbook at www.haleymcginnis.com.