Steven "Buddy" Ballard

Buddy was born on May 26, 1959, in Escambia County, Florida to Arthur and Mary Jo Ballard. Buddy graduated from Nathan B. Forrest High School and worked for Publix from the age of 18, starting in the meat department until ultimately becoming a truck driver.

Buddy’s world revolved around family and friends, to know him was to love him. He spent his work weeks planning his next great adventure, be that a fishing excursion, hunting trip, or a fun filled visit with family or friends. Buddy loved to tell stories and make others laugh. You could always count on Buddy to have a bag of sugary sweets stashed away for an abrupt snack break. Coming from a long line of avid animal lovers, Buddy always had a least one canine best friend. Buddy was always in his element tapping into his fun loving childlike nature causing a ruckus with his grandkids. He loved cheering on the Florida Gators and Green Bay Packers and he could always find something to do in the great outdoors. He was well known to light up a room, raise a few eyebrows, and share a great story (even with a telemarketer).

Buddy is survived by his mother, Mary Jo Ballard; his two daughters Jessica Scibetta (Michael) and Ericka Ballard; his brothers Mike and Doug Ballard; his sister Sylvia Brandt; his four grandchildren Kalen, Lucas, Emmett, and Lyla Scibetta; and his beloved dog Kodi.

A celebration of Buddy’s life will be held on Wednesday, March 10, 2021, the family will be receiving visitors from 2 to 4 PM at Corey-Kerlin Funeral Home on Cesery Boulevard, with a prayer service at 3 PM. Flowers may be sent to 940 Cesery Boulevard, Jacksonville FL 32211. Or in lieu of flowers please consider donating to Buddy’s favorite charity St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.