Billy John Ballentine

Billy John Ballentine, 82, of Pencil Bluff, Ar passed quietly with his family at his bedside on the Ballentine farm on Friday, November 7, 2025. He was born October 4, 1943 in Hot Springs, Ar to John David and Iva O. Ballentine. He is preceded in death by both his parents, his grandson Zack Klutts, and his wife of 59 years, Grace Virginia Ballentine.

John lived most of his life in Pencil Bluff on the family farm. He was a farmer and a diesel mechanic. He owned and operated Ballentine's Garage for many years. John mastered many trades throughout his life from wood carving to building small self propelled engines. There wasn't much he couldn't do and he was always willing to help. He was also involved in many ministries: Mexico mission trips, Prison ministry at Cummins, Montgomery County Jail Ministry, Appalachian Christian Project, American Red Cross Disaster Relief, and a member of the Gideon's. John also loved visiting and sharing God's word at the Montgomery County Nursing Home and Assisted Living.

His most fulfilling time was the last 14 years at Wednesday night Bible Study at the Pencil Bluff Firehouse led by Freddie and Phyllis Davis. This is where he received the Gospel of Christ, in 1 Corinthians 15 : 1-4, and he would tell anyone who would listen.

John is survived by: his son Charles ( Liz) Ballentine, his daughter Tammy ( Ben ) Harrison all of Pencil Bluff, Ar; his sister-in-law Mammie Vanderford; Grandchildren Luke Klutts, Markie Blocker, Jessie (Josh) Starr, Coley (Fayth) Ballentine; Great Grandchildren Lane and Bo Starr, Lily and Laney Klutts, Bella and Abby Ballentine; niece Sheila Hickman and nephew Richard Wheeler.

Special thanks to Elite Hospice and staff of Mena Regional Health System.

There will be no service per John's request. Arrangements under the direction of Thornton Funeral Home in Mount Ida, AR. Guest register at www.thorntonfh.com.