BALLARD, Ramona B.

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ June 30, 2008 Ramona B. Ballard died June 23, 2008, at home with family holding her hands. There was no pain or suffering. The family believes this was a direct result of all prayers being sent her way. The family would like to thank all those who offered for their support, prayers and generosity of their time. She was born Ramona Bernice Singson Aug. 18, 1932, in Santa Barbara, Calif., to Jose and Josephine Singson. Her lineage stretches from her father's Filipino roots, to her mother's Arizona Indian and Mexican heritage. As a child, she adored her brothers and enjoyed cooking for them. In turn, they protected and looked after her as only a brother can do. At the age of 10, she moved to Phoenix where she attended Phoenix Union High School, while living with her mother. In January 1951, she joined the U.S. Army and attained the rank of technical sergeant and was a Korean War veteran. As a soldier, she traveled to Kansas, Virginia, France, Germany and Luxemburg while serving with the Supreme Allied Headquarters Powers Europe. Upon her return to Phoenix, she worked at County Hospital and then for the late Dr. C. F. Risser in Sunnyslope. In 1965, she married Jerry M. Ballard. "Mom and Dad" shared 32 years together until Jerry passed away in 2001. Mom loved to fish, go on hunting and camping trips, and she could cook any kind of game meat or fish. She especially enjoyed traveling the country in the motor home. She taught all her kids how to cook, sew, clean house, do laundry - and above all - to always use proper manners. Mom loved the White Mountains. One of her favorite pastimes was to drive to where the elk were and listen to them bugle. Many of her photographs are, not of people, but of the countryside. When any of her kids would visit, she would pull these photos out and tell about them in detail. Anyone who watched Mom fish might think that she was not really fishing. Her line would be in the water, untouched as she just sat there. She was asked about this one time. She said, "Come here and sit by me. Now see, hear, smell, feel and taste all that is around us. That is the true meaning of fishing for me." She was a very active member of the First Baptist Church in Pinetop. Mom helped with the food basket distribution program, assisted in the establishment of the Spanish Ministry, assisted the pastor (whether he needed the help or not) and really enjoyed the Christian Women's Club. When someone would describe Mom, the same term was always used: "Feisty." Ramona was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry, son Michael and brother John. Staying behind are her children, David, Dale, Daniel and Dianne, and their families. Also surviving are her brothers, Robert and Ronald, and their families, nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Ramona was interred at the Lakeside Cemetery Saturday, June 28. In lieu of any gifts, the family requests that you consider a tax-free donation to White Mountain Hospice Foundation, 1789 W. Commerce Dr., Lakeside, AZ 85929. Mom When we whisper your name in our hearts, We know you will be there for us, As you always have been Sign the online guest book or offer private condolences at www.blacksmortuary.com.