Vickey Ray Ballard

Vickey Ray Ballard, of Pearl, Mississippi, passed away on November 19, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on January 14, 1951, in Morton, Mississippi, to Eddie Mae and Cecil Ballard.

Ray attended Pearl High School but spent much of his adult life in Pelahatchie, a place he proudly considered his hometown. In 2013, he married Connie Martin, and together they shared a blended family of six children.

A 100% Disabled Vietnam Veteran, Ray identified strongly with his service and the brotherhood it represented. He worked for many years as a foreman for Fornea Road Bore, where he enjoyed working alongside several of his family members.

Ray loved fishing, hot rods, his fur babies, Ole Miss, and spending time with those he loved most. Many Friday nights were spent cheering on the Pelahatchie Chiefs, a tradition he cherished dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Paul Ballard, Danny Ballard, and Tijuana Ballard Pace; and his wife Rhonda Karen Ballard.

Ray is survived by his wife, Connie Ballard; his children Cassandra Kay McFarland, Daniel Ray Ballard (Andrea), Angela Renee Conger (Melissa), Devon Michael Ballard (Sydney), Mary Helen Abel (Jay), and Eliyahu Parker; along with 22 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Gentiva Hospice, the nurses and staff of St. Dominic’s 6th South, and the Metro Corvette Club for a parade that brought Ray great joy in his final days.

Visitation will be on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm at Ott & Lee Funeral Home. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 11:00 am in the funeral home chapel, with a visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 am. Interment will follow in Shiloh Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America at VVA.org.