John Ballard

John Richard Ballard, age 70, of Tipton, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 3, 2024. He was born on November 21, 1953 to his parents, Jimmy Roscoe Ballard and Marilyn Joann (Cage) Ballard. 

For nearly 30 years, John worked for Janus Developmental Center/Firestone. He took great pride in his work and enjoyed his everyday routine. In John’s younger years, he loved riding his bike (especially the 3-wheeler) and playing basketball. More recently, you would have found him with a word book, working puzzles, or playing bingo. John was a proud member of Trinity Wesleyan Church in Tipton and his faith was very important to him.    

From the start, John impacted his family for the better. As a child, he needed direction. His parents, siblings and extended family lovingly protected him and encouraged him to reach his full potential. The love they all received back from John was a beautiful gift from God. Childlike, his love was genuine and unaffected by our cruel world. If John was part of your life you were blessed. His presence alone was very encouraging and uplifting. His love was counted on by many. It was a rare gift, completely authentic with no hidden agenda. He restored the hope of God’s unconditional love to everyone he crossed paths with. In simple terms, he was an angel and will be missed beyond measure! 

Those left to carry on John’s legacy of love are his brother, Jay Ballard; sister-in-law, Marsha Ballard; brother-in-law, David Cornwell; nieces & nephews, Derek Cornwell (Tiffany), Alisha Armes (Jason), Krista Armes (Todd), Jason Ballard (Caylee); great nieces & nephews, Evangeline Cornwell, Paighton Armes, Eli Armes, Lainey Armes, Kellsee Armes, Gavin Armes, Liam Armes, Evan Armes, Katey Armes, Kelsey Armes, Abby Armes, Noah Ballard, Beckett Ballard and Crew Ballard.  

John was welcomed into Heaven by his parents, Jimmy & Marilyn Ballard; sister, Virginia Cornwell; and great nephew, Brody Armes.  

A funeral service celebrating John’s life will be held on Thursday, November 7, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home, located at 314 N. Main St. In Tipton with David Cornwell officiating. Visitation for family and friends will take place prior to the service from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be held immediately following the service in Tipton’s Fairview Cemetery.   

Taylor & Cowan Funeral Home is honored to serve the Ballard family in their time of need. Please feel free to leave an online condolence or share a special memory of John with his family on his tribute wall.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John Ballard, please visit our floral store.