Dr. Robert Arnold Ball

Dr. Robert Arnold Ball, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and dedicated physician passed away on February 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Bob was born on July 18, 1935, in Philadelphia, PA. He graduated from Cheltenham High School in 1953. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science. After serving in the US Army, Bob attended Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he earned his Doctor of Osteopathy degree. He practiced family medicine in Northeast Philadelphia for many years, providing excellent care to patients from the neighborhood. Bob was a drummer and lover of jazz throughout his life, passions which he shared with his son Jonathan and many friends in the Philadelphia area. Aside from his love of family and music, Bob volunteered as a physician for the police and fire departments in Cheltenham Township and was the team doctor for the Cheltenham High School football team during the 1970s and 80s, all labors of love. He was a runner and cyclist and pursued these hobbies with family and friends. He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Dr. Roberta Robin Ball; children Robin Shapiro (David), Dr. Lauren Ball, Jonathan Ball (Julie Charnet), and Alison Ball; granddaughters Arielle and Ilana Shapiro; sister Phyllis Reischer and brother Darryl Ball. He was predeceased by his parents Dr. Simon and Anne Ball and his sister Barbara Portner. 

Private services and interment were previously held. Donations in Bob’s memory can be made to: Temple Beth Shalom 4419 W. Brigantine Avenue, Brigantine, NJ 08203, https://seashul.org/product-category/donation/; or, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, to support osteopathic medical education: go to http://alumni.pcom.edu/giving to make a gift online; checks can be mailed to Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Institutional Advancement 4180 City Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19131.