Billy Wayne Ballard's Obituary
Billy Wayne Ballard, Gunnery Sergeant USMC, retired, of Plano, Texas & long time resident of East Tawakoni, Texas was born on July 17, 1930 in Davidson, OK and passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Thursday, August 28, 2014. He was preceded in death by his wife of 37 years, Paula J. Ballard. He is survived by his daughter, Tonya Rene Ballard of New Braunfels, Texas; cousins, Thomas “Mac” & Linda McKinney, Mike McKinney, Toni Burge, Tena Houghton-Smith, Bernie McKinney, extended family Gary & Wendy Day & countless other family & friends. Bill’s 23 years of distinguished service in the United States Marine Corp, began in November, 1950. He was stationed around the world including American Embassy Duty in Mexico City, active duty in Korea and Vietnam earning him numerous commendations including National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, Purple Heart & Bronze Star. After his retirement Bill joined the Dallas County Sheriff’s Department where he continued to serve and protect for the next 18 years. Bill was a true Marine in every sense of the word, a truly humble hero. His worldly advise/opinions earned him the loving title “Papa Sage”. His humor, wit, love of life, family and friends will be missed but never forgotten by those whose lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to vcnct.org or the charity of your choice. A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at DFW National Cemetery on Thursday, September 18, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. “Semper Fi” Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Restland Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, TX 75238 at Restland Road.
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