Evva Marie Ballard

Evva Marie Ballard, age 76, passed away in Lakeland on August 13, 2025. Born in Georgia on December 3, 1948, Evva moved to Florida as child and was a cherished member of the Lakeland community for over 60 years. Evva's life was defined by love, laughter, and service. In 1985, she began a devoted life partnership with Raymond Harrison, with whom she shared nearly four decades of love and companionship. She retired in 2012 from a long career as a housekeeper and caregiver, roles that suited her deeply nurturing spirit. She was a proud member of the VFW 8002 Ladies Auxiliary and the Chatterbox Women's Bowling League. Whether bowling with friends, traveling to the beach or mountains, or volunteering through the Auxiliary, Evva lived her life with purpose and joy. Above all, she treasured time spent with her family. Evva was preceded in death by her parents Frances Dunaway and Herbert Fletcher; brothers Joe Fletcher and Chuck Fletcher; and grandson Michael Ballard. She is survived by her life partner Raymond Harrison; her children Melissa Hilliard (Scott) and Robyn Hiott (Tommy); grandchildren Gracia Haygood (Randy), Kayla Woods (Tyler), Thomas Hiott (Kaitlin), and Sage Rowe (Derek); and great-grandchildren Colton, Noah, Blake, Raygan, Skylar, Avvarie, Natalee, and Lauralei. She also leaves behind beloved siblings Kenny Fletcher, Mary Johnson, Gilda Dorden, Eddie Fletcher, and Angela Parker. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to your local VFW Ladies Auxiliary, a cause close to Evva's heart.