Billy Gene Ball

Billy Gene Ball, 80, of Hermitage, Ark., died at home with his devoted wife of almost 60 years at his side on May 23, 2011. Born to Dollie Anna Kuhn and William Herman Ball, who preceded him in death. He married his college sweetheart Mary Ruth Carter in 1951. He graduated from Southern State College in 1953 and began a lifelong career in sales. A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, he served as Bishop in New Orleans. He volunteered his free time and enjoyed many hobbies. He was preceded in death by brothers James Richard Ball and Tommy Lewis Ball. He is survived by wife, Mary Ruth Ball; son, Steven Carter Ball (Carol); and daughter, Nanci Ann Ball Kinser (Donald), James' widow Carol Ball; brother, Monty Ray Ball (Carol); grandchildren, Kelsey Kinser Gottfredson (Peter), Ali Kinser, Max Kinser, Harley Ball and Jeremy Ball. After a long battle with Alzheimer's, his body was donated to UAMS in Little Rock. No funeral arrangements are made. Donations appreciated to Hospice Home Care, 455 W. Gaines, Monticello, Ark. 71655 and the Arkansas Alzheimer's Association, 10411 W. Markham, Suite 130, Little Rock, Ark. 72205-1409. Arrangements made by Jones Funeral Home of Crossett, Ark. (www.jonesservice.com).