Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Thomas Gerald "Tommy" Ballard
1947 - 2025
BORN
1947
DIED
2025
Thomas Ballard Obituary
Born: November 3, 1947 | Died: August 23, 2025
Thomas "Tommy" Gerald Ballard, a lifelong resident of the Dayton area, passed away on August 23, 2025, at the age of 77 after a courageous and enduring battle with Parkinson's disease. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose life was defined by faith, service, and a deep love for sports and community.
Tommy was a passionate supporter of Rhea County, Greeneville Greene Devils, and Army West Point football. His enthusiasm for the game reflected his appreciation for tradition, competition, and camaraderie.
He enjoyed a long and fulfilling career with La-Z-Boy Furniture, followed by dedicated service with the Rhea County government. His commitment to public service continued as a Rhea County Commissioner, where he worked tirelessly to enhance the lives of those in his community.
Tommy is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy Ballard; sons Brian Ballard and Caine Ballard (Joey Ballard); grandson Cade Ballard; granddaughters Parker, Palmer, Marrick Ballard, and MaleeKate Rice (Brady). He is also survived by his brothers Bruce Ballard (Lunell) and Larry Ballard (Evelyn), and sister Charlotte Dotson. Special family members include Jackie and Helen Arnold, Lisa and the late Paul Riggs, and Birch and Pat Arnold. He was deeply loved and supported by his Sunday school class and the staff and friends at Life Care of Dayton.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James "Dyke" and Thelma Ballard; brothers Wallace and Ray Ballard; and sisters Pat Francisco and Linda Parker.
At this time service arrangements have not been finalized.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to New Union Baptist Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Ballard
0 Entries
Be the first to post a memory or condolences.
Make a Donation
in Thomas Ballard's name
Memorial Events
for Thomas Ballard
How to support Thomas's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Thomas Ballard's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
