Violet Mae Ballard

Mrs. Violet Mae Gilpin Ballard, age 78, of 964 Loflin Hill Road, Lot #14, Trinity, NC went to join her husband, daughter, and our Heavenly Father on Tuesday, September 3, 2013 at Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem, NC after a long illness with kidney disease as well as other health problems. Born on March 25, 1935 in Bluefield, she was a daughter of the late John Leslie and Cloa A. Tabor Gilpin. She was a member of the Church of God. She was also known as “Granny” and was an amazing wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a joy to everyone that met her. Her life was dedicated to her family. She enjoyed listening to Elvis, telling stories of her youth, and spending time with her grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William T. Ballard; daughter, Tamelia G. Oiler; brother, Kenneth E. Gilpin; and grandchildren, Ashley Cassidy and William Ballard. Survivors: Daughters: Andrea Green and husband Joseph A. of Trinity, NC Teresa R. Ballard of Trinity, NC Son: Randall D. Laudermilk of Alexandria, VA Sister: Patricia A. Laudermilk and husband Wayland of Eagle Rock, VA Grandchildren: Carrie L. Perkins and husband Jerry of Montcalm, WV Marlena L. Nicholson and husband William J. of Bluefield, WV Taylor R. Price and husband Tyler E. of the home Desiree C. Bernaldes and husband Dillon T. of Fountain Inn, SC Great-Grandchildren: Anthony and Leslie Kelley, Makayla, Matthew and Tanner Neel, and Allison and Samantha Farmer. She is also survived by a great-great grandson on the way. She is survived by special neighbors: Frances Diane Foushee and Aubrey Curl Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, September 7, 2013 at 10:00 AM at the Cravens-Shires Funeral Home in Bluewell with Rev. Robert Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Bluewell where pallbearers will include Joseph A. Green, James M. Rendle, Jerry Perkins, William J. Nicholson, Tyler E. Price, Bradford L. Morgan, Anthony D. Kelley, and Matthew P. Neel. Friends may call on Friday evening from 6-8 at the funeral home. The family is accepting online condolences at www.cravens-shires.com. The Cravens-Shires Funeral Home, 3431 Coal Heritage Road, Bluefield, WV is in charge of arrangements.