Donna J. Ashby Ballard

Donna Jean Ashby Ballard 87, of Foster, West Virginia, departed this life on March 4, 2016 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 15, 1928 , the daughter of the late Margie Gunnoe Ashby and Hudy Ashby and grandparents, Dan and Carrie Gunnoe. She was a Christian and a lifelong member of the Foster Church of Christ.

She and her husband of 64 years,Everett "Buddy" Ballard were the proud members of the 1946 graduating class of Scott High School. They remained active in their alumni group the rest of their lives. Together, she and Buddy were the owners of Ballard Floral in the 1950's. They were active, involved participants of their church and community. Together they enriched the lives of the young men of Rock Creek and Boone county.

She served many years in the PTA and was honored with a lifetime membership as president of the Madison Middle School PTA.

She lived a happy and full life traveling the country in their camper. She and Buddy were founding members of the Madison Squares square dancing club, attending numerous conferences throughout the country. They taught square dancing in local schools.

She was preceded in death by her husband Everett "Buddy" Ballard, sisters Sonia Price, Sandra McCormick, and Linda Layne, and brother Jim Ashby and her infant granddaughter , Christy Ballard.

She is survived by her sons Eddie (Stacia) of Prosperity, South Carolina, Chuck (Aleta) of Madison, and John (Tammy) of Foster with whom she made her home , sisters Mildred Casebolt of Nitro and Mary Pauley of Foster, grandchildren, Carrie Burns, Monica Booth, Rachel Ballard, Sarah Ryan, Shawn Ballard and Evan Ballard, ten great grandchildren and one great great grandchild, and many nieces and nephews, and special cousin, Sheila Griffith.

As we say goodbye to the beloved matriarch of our family we want to extend heartfelt thanks to her caregivers Diana Hill and Lucy Nugent, the staff of Boone Memorial Hospital, Foster Church of Christ, and all of you who have helped us in this difficult time.

Funeral service will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 8, 2016 Handley Funeral Home, Danville, WV with Nathaniel Dolin and L. D. Doug Miller officiating. Burial will follow in Ashby Cemetery, Rock Creek.

Friends may call 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.