Joseph J. Ball

Joseph J. Ball of Annapolis, Maryland passed away peacefully to his Lord and Savior on June 8, 2022. He was surrounded by his loving family. Joe to his many friends was born on July 12, 1924 in Los Angeles, California and moved to Annapolis, Maryland when he was five. After graduating from Annapolis Senior High School in 1942, Joe was inducted into the US Army and was assigned to the 809th Field Artillery Battalion as an artilleryman. During World War II, Cpl Ball, saw fighting and served with distinction during the Battle of Bulge, the Rhine River crossing at Remagen, and the Central Europe Campaign before ending the war in Czechoslovakia assigned to Patton’s 3rd Army. After being discharged, Joe attended and graduated from the University of Maryland and obtained a commission in the US Army Reserves, reaching the rank of Major. For most of his working career he worked as a Program Analyst for the Department of the Navy Air Systems Command. He was married to the love of his life the late Elizabeth Ball (nee Bryan) for 59 years. Joe was an avid sailor, photographer, and gardener. His volunteering to his community of Annapolis was unparalleled. He served as an Usher for St. Mary’s Church, volunteered at the Annapolis Visitors booth and Senior Center, and served as a member of the Annapolis City Liquor Board for many years. In addition, he participated in many numerous clubs and organizations. Joe also gave willingly of his time and expertise to help friends and neighbors and acquaintances. He was a big fan of the Baltimore Orioles, Colts and later Ravens. As a proud Maryland alum, he enthusiastically supported all Terrapin sports teams. He survived by his son Bryan Ball (Kelly) of Carlton, Minnesota and daughter Julia Ball (Mark Hyman) of Annapolis, Maryland and grandchildren Jennifer Hyman of Atlanta, Georgia, Kelly Hyman of Annapolis, Kyle Hyman of Annapolis. The family will receive friends at the John M. Taylor Funeral Home, 147 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis MD from 5-8 PM on Friday June 17. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, 109 Duke of Gloucester Street, Annapolis, MD on Saturday June 18 at 9 AM. Internment at Arlington National Cemetery to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations in his name may be made to the Little Sisters of the Poor, 601 Maiden Choice Lane Baltimore, Maryland 21228 or a charity of your choosing.