James S Ballard

James S. Ballard, age 84, of Westerville, Ohio passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 after an 11 year battle with Gillian Barre and COPD. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 64 years, Donna (Middaugh) Ballard, children Cathy Noskowiak, Karen and Jon Snyder, Tim Ballard and Angela. He was lovingly known as papa by 10 grandchildren: Nina Noskowiak and Aaron Noe, Gary and Mary Noskowiak, Emily Noskowiak, Kelsy Noskowiak, Kyle Noskowiak and Madison, Abby Snyder, Allison Snyder, Timmy Ballard and Kim Taylor, Brea Ballard, and Cody Ballard. He was loved by 10 great-grandchildren: Skylar, AJ, Sawyer, Maci, Dawson, Magnolia, Dempsey, Carter, Whitney, and Tiffany. He is also survived by his brother and sister: Russ and Jackie Ballard and Anna Underwood. He is survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

James was born on Sept. 30, 1939 to Russell and Gaynelle (Chapman) Ballard in Westerville, Ohio. He was known as a hard working man who enjoyed his time at Southern Meter and Del-Co Water Co. He worked as a Reserve Westerville Police Officer from 1967-1991. James served time as an emt and helped build the first emergency squad for Westerville. Throughout his life he enjoyed wood-working, trips to Amish Country, gardening, and spoiling his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Jim was well-known for his sense of humor, ornery antics, crooked grin, funny stories, and teaching his grandchildren to toilet paper friends to celebrate special occasions. Jim was a faithful follower of God as part of the New Bethel Christian Union Church. He will be truly missed by his family and friends and his legacy as a faithful servant will continue through them.

We would like to thank our kind nurses and staff from Promedica/ Gentiva Heartland Hospice care. He was comforted daily by their loving care.

Calling Hours will be held on Monday, April 15, 2024 from 4:00-6:00 pm with a service immediately following at Moreland Funeral Home at 55 East Shrock Road Westerville, Ohio. Pastor Wayne Booth, Pastor Chris Tullos, and Pastor Bob Mazzi will be officiating the service. Donations may be made in his honor to the Gentiva Heartland Hospice Care 6500 Busch Blvd. Suite 210 Columbus, Ohio 43229