Virgil Ballard

Virgil Dean Ballard, 86, passed away on Sunday, August 4, 2019 in Lenexa, Kansas. Virgil was born on November 18, 1932 in Marysville, Kansas. He was the son of Marvin and Lillian (Wilson) Ballard. He attended Barnes Rural High School where he was a star track athlete, competing at the state level. After graduating in 1951, he joined the United States Air Force as a driver for many high ranking officials like Harry S. Truman and Bob Hope.

He married Marilyn Joyce Oehler on June 20, 1954 at Fancy Creek United Methodist Church in Randolph, Kansas. After serving in the Korean War, he and Marilyn moved  to Wichita, Kansas and had two sons. Douglas Dean Ballard was born on October 22, 1956 and David Brent Ballard was born on October 28, 1960.

Virgil worked at Beech Aircraft, Boeing, and Cessna before moving to Kansas City, Missouri in 1966. Virgil worked at TWA for 32 years, retiring in 1998.

Virgil enjoyed being with his family, spending time at the lake and at the farm. He also enjoyed traveling, attending Country Music Shows and his grandchildren's events.

Virgil was a member of HABOT, the American Legion Post #0626, the Gracemor Community Council, the Gracemor Thursday Night Out Group, and McMurry United Methodist Church, where he served as an usher for many years.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sons, David and Douglas; and wife, Marilyn. Virgil is survived by his daughter-in-law, Anita; grandchildren, Matthew, Spencer, Connor, and Emily Ballard; great grandson, Hudson Dean; sister, Betty (Kenny) Wohler; sister-in-law, Orpha (Loy) Carlson; brother-in-law, Orlin (Sandra) and many nieces, nephews, and wonderful friends.

A visitation will be held on Friday, August 9th from 6-8pm and funeral  service on Saturday, August 10th at 2pm, both at Terrace Park Funeral Home and Cemetery. Burial immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to McMurry United Methodist Church , 25 Eugene Field Road, KCMO 64119.