James R. Ball

Dear Jim,
I learned so much from your workshops and because of you I made positive changes in my life!
I have shared your books with so many, you are truly missed, but because of your words in your books you really live on!
Debra Wylie

Dear Jim,
I am not sure why it hurts so much to know that you are gone even though you have this profound legacy I am saddened as I picked out your book in the library book sale. I have 1000's of books in my library and I wish I could read them all but I won't and for some reason I decided I would read soar...if you dare. Because it spoke to me the way each chapter is simply presented, and the visuals.
The odd part is I have only just begun and I am inspired to continue because I...

Jim lives on in those of us he taught and inspired. Some favorite memories were of his energetic public speaking and that aggressive straight talk when he'd challenge you because he believed in bringing out the best in people. As a coach now, I think of him often and have made choices using wisdom that he shared. I'm still thankful to have experienced Jim's entrepreneurship class in college as it changed my outlook and has had a long term impact on my life. Thank you to Jim for teaching us...

Dolly, I saw Dan Price today and learned the sad news of Jim's passing. Although we were not in touch for many, many years, Jim was always one of my favorite bosses. He gave me such confidence and pushed me to achieve my full potential when we were at Arthur Andersen. And he continued to encourage me at other difficult stages of my career. Words cannot express my sadness, and I pray you have found peace knowing he is at peace. God bless you and your daughters. Fondly, Maureen Van Vliet

I met Jim when I was working for a property Management company who had invited him to come and work with us! Jim changed my life, with his SOAR if you dare, I still have my Eagle message hanging in the bathroom where I see it daily, I am so sad to learn of his passing ! The good news he will never die because of all the seeds he planted in so many lives!
I will share his work for the rest of my life! Debra Wylie

To Jim's family: I hope you have an opportunity to visit this guest book periodically. I am writing because I see that it is online permanently.
Today is Sept.21, 2013. I have just returned from my 50th high school reunion (Sharon High). I didn't really graduate with everyone, as we moved to GA in Nov. of 7th grade. I was so looking forward to seeing Jim at this reunion. I had not returned to Sharon for several years, and was looking forward to seeing everyone. How sad I am to find that...

Here it is three years later and I still miss Jim. I have never been so inspired by another person in my lifetime. I still have all of his books and always share them with others.I am following his example. Jim's passion to help develop people and help them succeed and Soar (One of my favorite books, Soar.. if you Dare)made him my hero. He will always be locked tight in my heart of hearts.

Jen, Stephanie, and Mrs. Ball,

I am so sorry for your loss. Jim was a great man and I had a huge amount of respect for everything he accomplished in his life. I know I am a better man for having known Jim. I wish you all the best.

Sincerely,
Greg Simonson

To the Ball Family-
My condolences for your loss. I feel it, also. While I had only a brief opportunity to meet Jim through our USPS MLDP program, he gave us insights on how to manage with an emphasis on the positive. He was a true gift and his insights I have shared with my children. You are in my prayers.