Judith Lee Ballard

Judith Lee Ballard, affectionately known as Judy, passed away in the comfort of her home, with her family at her side on Wednesday morning, September 21, 2022 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Judy bravely fought breast cancer for 2 years before ultimately losing her battle.

Born on July 22, 1947 in Middletown, Ohio; she was the daughter of the late Joseph Woodrow Ballard and Betty Lou Smith Ballard. Judy knew from her childhood that she wanted to pursue a career in the fashion industry, moving to New York City at the age of 19. During her 30 year career she held management positions at industry giants Hermes, Valentino, and Celine before retiring in Raleigh to be close to her family.

Judy was the unofficial welcome committee in her tight-knit community, along with her beloved Schnauzer, Tyler. She was the life of the party amongst her many friends and was able to relate to people of any age, and from all walks of life. Judy was a natural storyteller, ready at any moment to share her life experiences.

Judy is lovingly remembered by her brother, Paul D. Ballard and his wife, Kathy Ballard of Asheville, NC; by her nieces: Carter Ballard and Caroline Ballard, both of Durham, NC, and by a host of close friends and neighbors.

Services will be held privately; in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Judy’s memory to the American Breast Cancer Foundation.

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