Opal Jean Lawson Ballard

BALLARD WALKERTOWN - Opal Jean Lawson Ballard, 70, went to be with her Lord, April 19, 2009 at Forsyth Medical Center after a courageous battle with a lengthy illness. She was born in Forsyth County to the late James Marion and Susie Melton Lawson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Joann Davis. Jean was a member of Gospel Light Baptist Church and retired from B.E. Aerospace. She was a loving mother, grandmother and sister. She leaves to cherish her memory: one son, Wayne Keith Ballard and wife, Theresa of Belews Creek; two daughters, Melissa Ballard Rivers of Walkertown and David Rivers of Bethlehem PA, and Donna Ballard Decker and husband, Jeff of Lexington; two sisters, Jackie Phillips and husband, Bob and Janet Lawson, all of King; five grandchildren, Jessica Ballard, Kasey and Hailey Rivers, Kirk and Tyler Decker; and many special friends and extended family. A Funeral Service will be conducted at 2 p.m. on Tuesday April 21, 2009 at Hayworth-Miller Kernersville Chapel with Dr. Bobby Roberson, Rev. Frank Shumate and Rev. Robert G. Decker officiating. Interment will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 7 until 9 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com.