Charles Gene Ballard, age 85, longtime resident of Sapulpa, OK, passed away peacefully on
Saturday, December 28, 2024, at the Claremore Veterans Center in Claremore, OK. He was
born on April 19, 1939, in Lincoln, AR to Katherine and Rex Ballard. He lived a full and vibrant
life that touched many.
Charles attended school in Sapulpa. After completing his education, he answered the call of duty
and proudly served his country in the United States Army. His military service began in May of
1957, and concluded with an honorable discharge on June 21, 1966. After serving his nation, he
embarked on a career at Liberty Glass Plant, where he dedicated many years as a Stock Room
Manager until his well-deserved retirement.
He was a man of faith and commitment, serving as a deacon at Pickett Prairie Baptist Church in
Sapulpa. His love for music was evident as he played his banjo with the church worship band
and participated in the nursing home ministry, bringing joy and comfort to many.
Charles’s passion for life was not limited to his music. He found great pleasure in restoring his
1939 Chevrolet pickup and was an active member of the Fun Bunch car club. Alongside his
beloved wife, Elizabeth “Liz” Ann Ballard, with whom he shared 56 years of marriage until her
passing in 2016, he traveled extensively. The couple particularly enjoyed their trips to Branson,
MO, during veterans’ week and cherished the time spent with close friends Ron and Linda
Scantlin.
Charles’s legacy is carried on by his grandson, Corey James Ballard and wife Ashley of Coweta,
OK; his great-grandchildren, Emalyn Paige Ballard and Emerson James Ballard; and his
brother-in-law and sister-in-law, James “Jim” and Linda Frederick of Texas. He also leaves
behind BJ Southerland and wife Gay of Sapulpa, OK, who was like a second son to him and
provided unwavering support throughout his life.
Charles was preceded in death by his loving wife, Elizabeth Ann Ballard, his parents, Katherine
and Rex Ballard, and his son, Charles Rex Ballard.
Charles’s presence will be profoundly missed, but his memory will continue to inspire those who
were fortunate enough to have known him.
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Charles will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, January 3,
2025, at Pickett Prairie Baptist Church, 11330 W. 181st St. S., Sapulpa, OK 74066.
Family and friends are invited to share their memories and condolences online at
www.brownfamilycares.com. The family of Charles Gene Ballard has entrusted his care and
service to Brown Funeral Home & Cremations, 210 S. Broadway, Coweta, OK 74429, 918-486-
5515.
