Robert Nicholas "Nick" Ball

Robert Nicholas (“Nick”) Ball, 87, of Port Orange, passed away peacefully at his home on January 15, 2026. Nick was known for his dedication to family and faith, his humble nature, and his pragmatic approach to life. He was beloved by his family and friends and will be deeply missed.

Nick was born on October 10, 1938, in Dayton, Ohio, and moved at an early age to Port Clinton, Ohio, where he grew up. A graduate of Port Clinton High School, Nick earned a bachelor’s degree at Heidelberg College before becoming a teacher. Although he started out in elementary education, Nick soon found his true calling as a junior high and high school math teacher. In Ohio, Nick met and married his lifelong love Diana, with whom he moved to Ponce Inlet, Florida, in 1974. Together, they raised two daughters there before moving to Port Orange. Nick spent most of his decades-long teaching career at junior high and high schools in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where he inspired countless students.

Nick was devoted to his church communities, having served on various committees, as a treasurer, and as a deacon, most recently at United Presbyterian Church in Daytona Beach. He loved listening to and making music, which came in handy during a midlife stint singing in a barbershop quartet. He sang regularly in church choirs and handbell choirs, and performed solos that showcased his gift for music.

Nick also loved sports, particularly basketball, which he played in High School and later coached as a teacher. He was also a great pool player, and liked to joke that his “misspent youth” unfolded primarily at the pool hall. An avid player of board and card games, Nick also appreciated the challenge of a difficult sudoku puzzle.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Sally Short; stepfather, John Short; and brother, Lou Ball. He is survived by his wife, Diana; children Jessica Albright and Abbi Ball (Mike); grandchildren Lottie Albright, Xia Albright, Sam Dickey, and Alice Dickey; sister, Leah (Steve) Tusen; and many nieces/nephews and grandnieces/grandnephews. The family invites donations in Nick’s memory to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society or Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida, and is grateful for your prayers, stories, and fond remembrances.