Wardell Ballentine

Wardell Ballentine entered into eternal rest on Monday, November 28, 2016 at the age of 86.

He was born on August 17, 1930, to Thomas and Lenora Bridgeforth Ballentine in Pulaski, Tennessee. He was educated in the Pulaski Public School System and graduated in 1948 from J. T. Bridgeforth High School (which was named after his grandfather). Wardell later enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served in Korea and was granted an Honorable Discharge in 1958.

After serving his country, he attended Lane College where he was initiated into Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Wardell eventually transferred to Southern University and A & M College and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree with a concentration in Physical Education. He furthered his studies at Northwestern State University and acquired a Master of Science Degree in Educational Administration. In 1955, while matriculating at Southern University, Wardell met and married the love of his life, Josie Morris. To this union, two daughters were born, Rochelle Ballentine Machen and Sandra Ballentine Smith.

Wardell began his educational career as a teacher and coach in his hometown of Pulaski, Tennessee. After a short stint in Pulaski, Wardell moved his family to Alexandria, Louisiana where he worked as a coach at several schools in Rapides Parish - Lincoln Road Elementary School, Alexandria Junior High School and Jones Street Junior High School. He retired from the Rapides Parish School System after thirty-eight years of dedicated service to enjoy life with family and friends.

In addition to his membership in Kappa Alpha Psi for over fifty years, he served on several boards: Alexandria Coliseum Board and Alexandria Business and Civic League where he served as president. Wardell exemplified longevity of dedication as a devout fan and supporter of Southern University Football. As a result of his dedication, on October 10, 2008, Southern University developed and dedicated the RV Park, known as Ballentine Plaza, to Wardell and Josie Ballentine.

Wardell leaves to cherish his memory his devoted and loving wife of sixty-one years, Josie; his children - Rochelle Machen (James) of New Roads, LA, and Sandra Ballentine Smith of Baton Rouge, LA; his three grandchildren - Claire Williams Bradley (Elton) of Amarillo, TX, Evan Darryl Williams of Venice, CA and Lauren Smith Marrioneaux (Cedric) of Pensacola, FL; and one great granddaughter, Elliana Lovette Bradley. He also leaves to celebrate his legacy a devoted sister-in-law, Dorris Morris Tribbett, cousins John Finch Nelson, (Ada), and Mary Yvonne Bridgeforth Mack (Jerry), as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and other cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Lenora Ballentine, and three brothers, J.D. Ballentine, Finch Ballentine, and Thomas Jefferson Ballentine.

Arrangements under the direction of Greenoaks Funeral Home, Baton Rouge, LA.