Jerry Joe Ballard's Obituary
Jerry Ballard passed into the presence of the Lord on January 23, 2026, at St. Francis Hospital-Bartlett.
Jerry was born to Joan and Jack Ballard at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee on January 15, 1954. He grew up in East Memphis, where he attended Overton High School and graduated in 1973. After completing technical school in 1975, Jerry became a journeyman carpenter and worked for George A. Fulghum Co., a business in which his father was a part owner. These early years shaped his strong work ethic and integrity.
In April 1977, Jerry married the love of his life, Tina Martini Ballard. Together, they built a life marked by devotion, perseverance, and deep love for family. In 1978, Jerry entered engine sales at VICO, beginning a successful and fulfilling career in direct sales. Through his work, Jerry provided faithfully and generously for those he loved, always placing family first.
Jerry was a devoted husband to Tina, a loving father to his children Edward (Jessica Tull), Justin (who preceded him in death in 2008), and Leslieanne Ballard Dove (Joshua), and a proud grandfather to Allyson, Justin, Avery, Andrew, and Raegan. He was also a beloved brother to his sister Janice Ballard, and a cherished son, uncle, cousin, and friend to many. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Jerry’s warm sense of humor and fun-loving attitude brought laughter and light to those around him, and he never missed a chance to share a joke or a smile.
A man of faith, Jerry loved the book of Proverbs and cherished wisdom. He was a source of guidance and instruction for his family, whose members often sought and trusted his counsel. Jerry found joy in the simple blessings of life—working in the yard alongside Tina and walking and playing with the family’s many beloved animals. A resident of Bartlett, Tennessee since 1987, he deeply loved his community and was a familiar face at the Bartlett YMCA, where he swam daily.
Jerry’s legacy of love, wisdom, and faithful service will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and all who were blessed to know him. Visitation will be held at Memorial Park Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 4, at 11:00followed by a memorial service at 12:00.
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