Joseph Edward Ballard

Joseph “Jody” Edward Ballard Sr, 85, of Owensboro passed away peacefully on Friday, August 7, 2026, at his home with his loving wife and family by his side. Joseph was born July 30, 1941, in St. Raphael to the late Dennis Edward Ballard and Martine Westerfield Ballard. Joseph was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He was married to the love of his life, Rita Thomas Ballard for 62 years.

In addition to his parents, Joseph also was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Joseph Ballard III and his sisters, Betty Ann Ballard and Patty Nall.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Rita; five children, Sherry Ann Whelan (Edward), Theresa Marie Mahoney (Jeff), Joseph Edward Ballard Jr (Kim), Mary Julia Hutchins (Jay), and John Michael Ballard (Vickie). 19 grandchildren, Jessica, Emily, Rachel, Eric, Jeremy, Justin, Josh, Haley, Katie, Matthew, Natalie, Courtney, Corey, Jared, Jake, Jourdan, Tyler, Blake, and Sammi; 31 great grandchildren and 3 on the way; siblings, Rose Mary Wathen (Tony) and Robert Ballard (Joyce); numerous nieces and nephews.

Joseph will be remembered for his deep love of family and the many memories he created throughout his 85 years. His greatest legacy is the family he leaves behind, who will carry his memory and love with them always.

The funeral Mass for Joseph Ballard will be 10:00 am Wednesday, August 12 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. Visitation will be Tuesday from 3:00 until 7:00 pm with prayers at 6:30 at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Hospice and Palliative Care of W. Kentucky, 3419 Wathen’s Crossing Owensboro, KY 42301.

Condolences and memories for Joseph’s family may be left at www.glenncares.com.