Obituary of Raymond C. Ballard, Sr.

Raymond Curtis Ballard, Sr., 77, passed away on December 4, 2024 at Bassett Medical Center in Cooperstown. Ray was born on January 17, 1947 in Sidney, son of Curtis and Inez (Randall) Ballard. He grew up in Sidney and graduated high school in 1966 before joining the military. He served in active duty from 1966 to 1970 in the US Navy stationed on the USS John F. Kennedy. While active, he became pen pals and fell in love with Marie. They married on August 30, 1970 and enjoyed 54 years of marriage. Following his honorable discharge in 1970, he began his career at Bordens, where he worked until 1998. He then worked at Amphenol Corp. for 13 years until his retirement in 2011. In his free time, Ray spent 50+ years of his life, researching and documenting his ancestry. He enjoyed stopping at both large and little-known cemeteries on nearly every road trip. It was a known fact that Ray might had as many pictures of headstones as he did his children. While in retirement, Ray was also an active member at Brown’s Auction helping out and furthering his interest in antiques and their history. Ray was a self-skilled carpenter and electrician. There was never a project too big or too small that he could not complete. He will fondly be remembered for his enthusiasm participating in parades, memorials, and his love of music and dancing. There was not a stranger that did not instantly become a friend. Most important to him though, was the love and affection for his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Ray is survived by his wife, Marie Ballard and their children: Raymond Ballard Jr. (Stephanie), Lisa Pritchard (Marty), Becky Acla (Andrew), Michael Ballard, Jamie Ballard, Joseph Ballard (Anna) and Jason Ballard; grandchildren: Tabatha, Amber, Gabrielle, Josh, Kona, Elizabeth, Ashley, Cameron, Madison, Brackon, Aidon, Ammon, Anthony, Austin, Jana, as well as 18 great grandchildren with one on the way. He is also survived by his brother Ed Ballard (Sylvia), as well as nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. In addition to his parents, Curtis and Inez Ballard, he was also predeceased by two brothers, Gordon and Graydon Ballard, and his grandson, Michael Schermerhorn. A celebration of Ray’s life will be held at the Sidney American Legion, 22 Union St. Sidney at 3:00pm on Saturday, December 14, 2024 with military honors beginning at 4:00. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Sidney American Legion Post 183.