James Norton Ballard, age 78, passed away January 26, 2022 in Covington, Georgia. He grew up in Anniston and lived most of his life in Calhoun County. Jim proudly served the people of Anniston as a police officer for 30 years and retired as a captain. Through all those years, Jim made many friends including colleagues, citizens and people from the surrounding counties. He was a lifetime member of the Fraternal Order of Police Anniston Lodge #4 and past president of the Alabama State FOP. Jim was active in The Boy Scouts from an early age. He earned his Eagle Scout badge at the time when boys loaded up and headed out for scouting adventures with sleeping bags, tents and knowledge of how to build a fire so they could eat supper. He and his wife enjoyed camping throughout their marriage and made many wonderful friends. Jim was an avid Alabama football fan and during football season, Saturdays were strictly for Bama games. After his retirement, Jim and Reatha bought a motorhome to travel while Reatha worked and Jim was driver, secretary and cook. From Maine to Nevada and points in between, they enjoyed the open road and beautiful scenery. They had recently moved to Porterdale, Georgia to be closer to Julie, Mark and their families. Jim was a devoted, loving husband, father and grandfather. His immediate and extended family meant the world to him, and he greatly enjoyed family gatherings.
Jim is preceded in death by his wonderful parents, Mary Lou and James Dudley Ballard, who was a retired Anniston Fire Chief. His adored sons Matthew and Andrew Ballard and his special sister, Ada Ruth Weldon.
He is survived by his wife Reatha Ballard; daughter, Julie Scott (Lea); son, Mark Ballard (Terri); grandchildren, Savannah Smith (Jeffrey), Davis Ballard, Logan Ballard, Nathan Ballard; Aidan Findley, Ava Findley, Kaleb Slaton, Garrett Scott, Patric Scott; sister, Joan Kysiak (Phil); and brothers, John Ballard (Joyce), Joe Ballard (Anita).
Donations can be made to Jim’s favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Condolences may be sent to www.chapelhillfh.com
