Billy Ray Ballard, age 83 of Clinton, Missouri passed away Saturday, May 19, 2012 at Golden Living Center-Westwood, Clinton. Funeral Services will be Tuesday, May 22, 2012, 2:00 p.m. at Vansant-Mills Chapel, Clinton, with interment in Clinton Memory Gardens Cemetery, Clinton. The family will receive friends Monday, May 21, 2012, 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Vansant-Mills Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to P.A.W.S. and they may be left in care of the funeral home. Fond memories may be left online at www.vansant-millsfuneralhome.com.

Billy was born in Iconium, Missouri the son of Luther Glen and Myrtle B. (Eversole) Ballard. Billy served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He was married to Ruth Jeanette (Spackler) Ballard, who preceded him in death on May 14, 1997. He worked as a truck driver and north dock night supervisor for Clearfield Cheese Co. for over twenty years until he retired. Billy was a member of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church and a former member of Eagles Club in Clinton.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Myrtle Ballard and his wife, Ruth Jeanette Ballard.

He is survived by his son, Richard Glenn "Ricky" Ballard of the home; two daughters, Susie Ballard and Jayne Duncan both of Clinton; one granddaughter, Christine Raye Duncan and a special friend, Virginia Carter of Clinton.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Vansant-Mills Funeral Home, Clinton, Missouri.