Gary D. Ballard

Gary D. Ballard, age 86, of Bel Air, Maryland, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2024, at the Senator Bob Hooper House in Forest Hill, Maryland. Born in St. Joseph, Missouri, he was the cherished son of the late Ed and Doris Ballard and the devoted husband of Bonnie Ballard for 56 years.

Gary was a proud veteran and graduate of the United States Naval Academy (USNA) earning a degree in Engineering as a member of the Class of 1960. He served the United States Navy honorably during the Vietnam Era aboard submarines. His commitment to the military continued as he devoted his career to the defense industry, working in contracting for over 40 years.

Gary was an active member of Christ Our King Presbyterian Church and the USNA Blue-N-Gold Club. He was also an avid fan of Navy football and the Detroit Lions.

Gary had a profound love of music and sang for over 50 years with various choral groups, including the Baltimore Symphony and the Baltimore Handel Choirs. He cherished spending time with his family, and had a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature and traveling the world. 

Known for his quick wit, his storytelling, the mischievous twinkle in his eyes, his good-natured teasing, and his ability to laugh at himself, Gary leaves behind a legacy of devoted love and endearing humor over a life well-lived. He will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege to know him.

In addition to his wife, Gary is survived by his daughters, Kristi Sordillo (Thomas) and Robin Ballard (Elia Pelios); son, Ben Ballard (Laura); sisters, Marilyn Drannan and Carolee Frakes; brother, Lynn Ballard; and grandchildren, Nicholas, Evan, Grace, Will, James, Ben, and Elise.

Gary was also preceded in death by his brother, John Ballard, and his sister, Barbara Rose.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital PO Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101, or to the Music program at Christ Our King Presbyterian Church, 10 Lexington Road, Bel Air, MD 21014.

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