Obituary of Joel Thomas Ballard

J.T. "Tom" Ballard, age 85, of Chapel Hill, NC, passed away at his home on Tuesday, April 12, 2016. He was called to Heaven to join his wife of fifty-six years, Betty Ballard. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was a Chapel Hill fixture, he and Betty lived in Chapel Hill all of their married life, and he could be seen dining at Breadmans almost every Sunday. He retired from the University of North Carolina Hospital at Chapel Hill and after retiring he and Betty spent time traveling the country. He also loved to watch nature, especially birds; and he was an avid horseman. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. Although the family is saddened by his passing, they are joyful that he has joined his beloved wife Betty once again. Left to cherish his memory is his son, Bruce Ballard (Megan) of Mebane, NC, his daughters: Charlotte Stevens (Dale) of Siler City, NC and Janet Carden (Roger) of Efland, NC, his grandchildren: Beth Stevens of Bennett, NC and Thomas Stevens of Siler City, NC and his great-grandchildren: Carolyn Stevens, Jenna Stevens and Thomas Allen Stevens and his companion, Mary Monk of Chapel Hill. Funeral services will be held, Friday, April 15, 2016 at 2:00 pm at Walker's Funeral Home Chapel, Minister Ernie Keck officiating. Walker's Funeral Home, Chapel Hill, 120 W. Franklin St. Chapel Hill, NC is serving the Ballard family. Online condolences may be made at www.walkersfuneralservice.com