On March 5, 2025, the hands of God gently touched and sealed the lips of our beloved mother, grandmother, wife, aunt, niece, and friend, Betty Ann Ballard.

Betty Ann Ballard, born Betty Ann Nelson on January 8, 1950, in Meadville, Mississippi, to Isaac Nelson and Ethal Mae Nelson, was a treasured presence in the lives of all who knew her. A woman of incredible strength, unconditional love, and unwavering faith, Betty lived her life guided by her deep relationship with Jesus Christ.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ethal Mae and Isaac Nelson; her husband, James Lewis Ballard Sr.; and her sisters, Ruth Ann, Ruby Lee, Catherine (Teen), Rose Lee, and her brother, Roosevelt.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Latanya (Emerson) Zeno; her two sons, James (Laquisha) Ballard Jr. and Kendall Lamont Ballard; her stepdaughter, Arlease Washington; her goddaughter, Risha Neal; and her ten grandchildren; Christian, Christopher, Chase, Jade, Journee, Jabria, Kenai, and D'Amber; three great grandchildren. She is also survived by her three brothers, Buddy Nelson, Richard Nelson and Isaac Nelson Jr.

While Betty May no longer be with us physically, her spirit and the lessons she imparted to us will live on forever in our hearts, bringing us peace and strength.