Gerald Wayne Ballard

Gerald Wayne Ballard, age 74, passed away Thursday morning, September 3, 2026 at the Shepherd Hospice House in Southaven, Mississippi. 

A graveside service for Gerald will be held at 10:00 a.m. at the Good Hope Cemetery in Batesville, Mississippi on Saturday, September 5, 2026.

Gerald, known as "Buddy" to his family and close friends, was born on April 14, 1952 in Newellton, Louisiana to the late Rev. Walter C. Ballard and Stella Louise Wilson Ballard. For most of his life, he worked several miscellaneous jobs. Gerald honorably served in the United States Army from 1972 to 1975 during the Vietnam War, receiving the rank of SP4 and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. 

Since he was born in Louisiana, Gerald was of course an avid LSU fan. He especially enjoyed watching their football and baseball teams play. 

Those he leaves behind to remember his simple, yet loving nature includes his two siblings, Linda Ballard McCreary of Ripley, MS and Philip Ballard of Ridgeland, MS. He also leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews, as well as great nieces and nephews. 

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Sharon Ballard Woods; and his brother, Walter E. Ballard.