BALLARD, Robert E.

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ September 8, 2008 Robert E. Ballard, 83, died Aug. 29, 2008, in Amaraillo, Texas. Robert was born in Columbus, Ohio, to Elmer Claud and Grace Barrett Ballard on Dec.14, 1924. He proudly served his country from 1942 until 1946 in the U.S. Army during WWII. It was on July 3, 1948, that he married his childhood sweetheart, the love of his life, Maryjane Long, in Xein, Ohio. After their marriage, he attended technical school in Ohio and then moved to Arizona where he attended Arizona State University. After college he began a career with Sears and Roebuck that would span 38 years. He first was the manager and later became the chief engineer at the Sears Store at 24th and Camel. Robert retired in 1986. Robert was always creating and designing things, whether it was the retirement home that he designed and built for Mayjane in Pinetop or the creation of exquisite jewelry he made for family and friends. Everything he touched was masterfully transformed into a work of art. While living in Arizona, they enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening and playing golf. Together, Robert and Maryjane were fortunate to travel extensively throughout the world. In 2004, at the encouragement of his daughters they moved to Amarillo "part-time," where they became members of Polk Street United Methodist Church. Robert is survived by his wife, Maryjane; two daughters, Nancy Anne Lopez and Sheryl Louise Williams, both of Amarillo; and three granddaughters, Leanna Marie Lopez, Jessica Dymond Williams and Emily Suzanne Williams. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date at the family's home. In lieu of flowers memorials should be made to "Olivia's Angels," c/o BSA Hospice, P.O. Box 950, Amarillo, Texas 79101. Arrangements were handled by Schooler Funeral Home in Amarillo, Texas.