Jay Ballard

Jay Ballard, 75, of Huntington, IN, died peacefully at home on December 2, 2022 in the care of his family and the kind staff from Parkview Hospice. Jay was a gentle father, a loving husband and grandpa, and a committed Jesus follower who was eager to meet his good Father. Jay was born in Xenia, OH on March 16, 1947 to John and Freda Ballard. He spent his childhood working on the family farm, tinkering with his ham radio, and trapping in the woods. Jay studied electrical engineering at John Brown University in Bentonville, AR and worked for Square D in Oxford, OH and Huntington, IN for 42 years. He led his engineering team to strive for constant improvement in efficiency and made a point to know everyone in the manufacturing plant by name. Jay cared about his coworkers’ stories, knew about their families, and often asked for their feedback. In 1979, Jay met a young lady named Jan Thompson at Grayston Avenue Church. They began playing tennis, riding bikes, and watching The Waltons together. Long story short, they married in August 1980 and built a red brick home where they would spend the next 42 years raising their 5 children - Liz, Becky (Travis), Dan (Tara), Sharon (Kenny), and Dave (Emily) - and doting generously on their 15 grandchildren. In his final days, Jay was given one more gift of joy in the birth of a granddaughter — Everly Joy. Anyone who knew Jay also knew that he cared deeply about education, woodworking, and good conversation. He was so proud to see his 5 children through college and into meaningful careers. He loved teaching and working alongside his son-in-law, grandson, and friends in his home woodshop. He loved striking up conversation with new people everywhere he went. And he loved hiking in the woods with his grandchildren. Jay served faithfully as a deacon, elder, and led multiple building projects for The Well United Brethren Church in Huntington. Therefore, it’s only fitting that visitation will be available at The Well on Friday, December 9 from 3:00 - 7:00 PM, and a memorial service held at The Well on Saturday, December 10 at 11:00 AM with visitation beforehand at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider supporting By the Book Program of the Associated Churches of Huntington County. Please sign the online guest book at www.baileylove.com. Bailey-Love Mortuary is honored to serve the family of Jay Ballard.

Jay Ballard

March 16, 1947 - December 2, 2022