Billy Ball

Tuesday, March 8, 2016

Billy Joe Ball, 78, of Arbyrd, Mo., died Monday, March 7, 2016 at the Twin Rivers Regional Medical Center in Kennett. Born in Brandsville, Mo., he was the son of the late John Henry and Cora Alice Ellison Ball, was raised in the Buckeye community and had been an Arbyrd resident for the past 30 years. A retired farmer, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, and raising hogs and chickens. Mr. Ball was of the Baptist faith.

Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Gloria Jean Gibson Ball of the home;

Two sons, David Ball of Cardwell and Wade Ball of Manila;

Two daughters, Alice Jackson of Paragould and Donna Sue Ball of Leachville;

He also leaves three sisters, Pauline Rickman of Jonesboro, Maxine Melvin of Cardwell and Betty Preston of Arbyrd;

Seven grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be 3 p.m. on Thursday, March 10, 2016 at the Howard Funeral Service Chapel in Leachville with Rev. Dennie Brown officiating. Burial will follow in the Cardwell Cemetery. Mr. Ball's grandsons will serve as pallbearers. The family will receive visitors Wednesday evening from 6-8 at the funeral home. The family requests lasting memorials be made to Autism Association of Northeast Arkansas, 1702 Stone St., Jonesboro, AR 72401. Guest register at www.HowardFuneralService.com.