Willie Marietta Ballard

Willie Marietta McCray Ballard, 82, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2020. She was born to William and Mable McCray on July 28, 1938 in Henderson, KY. Willie married her long-time friend, James Ballard who preceded her in death.

She had a heart of gold and loved to help others who were in need. Willie was very opinionated and believed in letting you know exactly how she felt. She was a member of Seventh St. Baptist Church where she enjoyed attending Sunday Service.

After graduating from Douglas High School, Willie left Henderson for Chicago to pursue her dream of becoming a Registered Nurse. She obtained her nursing degree and was employed at Cook County Hospital in Chicago for many years before returning to Henderson to care for her mother. Willie loved her family and loved listening to good R&B Music, especially the Isley Brothers and Johnnie Taylor.

In addition to her husband and parents, Willie was preceded in death by grandson: Dontae Barnes; brothers: James Edward Weathers, Malcolm Owen Weathers, Shirley Weathers, Charles Weathers; sisters: Etoy Price and Mable Weathers.

Willie leaves to cherish her memory, daughters: Donna Barnes, Tonet Ballard; sons: Timothy Ballard, Dana Ballard; brother: Chester McCray; 14 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.