Funeral service for Kelvin Clay Ballard, 71, of Sparta, was 1 p.m., July 16, 2025, in the Cookeville Chapel of Hooper, Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home, with burial in Saylors Cemetery.
Kelvin Ballard, a devoted family man and treasured friend, passed away unexpectedly, on July 13, 2025, at Ascension Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital.
Born Dec. 23, 1953, in Gainesboro, Kelvin lived a life filled with love, laughter, and a strong work ethic that defined his character and his relationships with those around him.
Kelvin dedicated many years of his life to working as a truck driver for various companies, embodying the former adage that hard work pays off. After retiring, in 2010, he found joy in nurturing his passions. A passionate gardener, Kelvin was known for cultivating a stunning, abundant garden each year. His green thumb brought vitality not only to his garden but also to the hearts of those who beheld it. Kelvin relished time spent outdoors, soaking in the beauty of nature and sharing it with his loved ones.
The memories of Kelvin are rich and varied, often highlighted by his laid-back and happy-go-lucky nature. Such tales will forever remind his family of his spirited personality and zest for life.
Kelvin was an avid eater who took great pleasure in country cooking. It was said that he had a hungry appetite and a love for all things delicious, turning mealtimes into cherished gatherings with his loved ones. His pride and joy were found in caring for his family, a role he embraced wholeheartedly, showing unwavering support and affection to everyone around him.
He leaves behind a loving life partner, Betty Nash Ballard, and his daughters, Lori Ballard Greatorex (Donnie), Jenny (Bobby) Anderson, and Aimee (Mike) Payne. His legacy continues through his brother, Robert Ballard, and sister, Sandy (Billy) Scott. Kelvin’s grandchildren, Brooklynn Payne, Alex (Ben) Hickey, Michael Peyton Payne, Katie (Joe) Kashner, Sean Nash, and Emily Anderson will carry on his spirit, alongside his great-grandchildren, Josie, Lila, Norah Kashner, and Theo Hickey. He is also survived by his loyal companion, his dog, Tater, who was by his side through life’s many moments.
Kelvin was preceded in death by his loving parents, Encil and Wilma Dean Martin Ballard; his brother, Ricky Ballard; and his cherished son-in-law, Bobby Anderson. He also mourned the loss of his beloved dog, Abby, who brought him such joy.
Mike Payne, Donnie Harville, Joe Kashner, Billy Scott, Sean Nash, Denton Bristow, Brian Ballard and Aubrey Watson served as pallbearers.
Hooper, Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
