Rodney Russell Ballard

Rod was born at home on May 3, 1946, in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, to Ruth Trammell Ballard and Mayo Lee Ballard. In his early years, he experienced both hardship and the deep bond of a mother’s love. After enduring a tumultuous childhood, Rod and his mother moved to Oklahoma City, where Ruth, one of the first single women to purchase a home in the area, provided a foundation of strength and unconditional love that would shape Rod’s character and faith for the rest of his life.

At age 10, Rod’s family grew with his mother’s marriage to Gene Deal, and they relocated to Moore, Oklahoma. Rod missed the Oklahoma City Jr. Civil Air Patrol so much that, with Gene’s help, he founded a chapter in Moore and served as Commander, leading the unit to become the top-ranked chapter in the state.

Despite suffering a devastating motorcycle accident in high school, Rod graduated and even attended his prom in a wheelchair, escorted by one of his nurses. His resilience never waned. Though initially rejected from military service due to his injuries, the call to serve was strong, and during the Vietnam War, he was ultimately accepted. Rod completed four tours in Vietnam and served in the Navy Reserves, Oklahoma National Guard, and Army National Guard, devoting 16 years to military service.

After his military career, Rod pursued higher education with a passion for learning that matched his spiritual fervor. He attended Bethany Nazarene College, Northeastern State University, and finally Langston University, earning a degree in Corrections and Criminal Justice. Rod’s intellectual curiosity led him to take eclectic courses, from stained glass art (a craft at which he excelled) to in-depth psychology studies, all while keeping his Bible close and his heart open to God’s calling.

Rod’s professional journey was as diverse as his interests. From selling tulip bulbs as a child to working as a top insurance and Bible salesman, Rod explored many paths. He served as Youth Leader at Church on the Move in Tulsa, Supervisor at the Tulsa Animal Shelter, and night watchman at the Tulsa Zoo, a job he dearly loved. Later, he became a court advocate for DHS and, in his later years, a Master Hypnotist helping veterans and others heal from trauma.

Rod’s love for people and for the Lord showed in all he did, comforting crying grandchildren in the summer chaos of “Papa Rod” days. Becoming a grandfather was one of his greatest joys. He cherished each of his 11 grandchildren, nurturing them with stories, hugs, snorkeling lessons, and the occasional karate move.

He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 26 years, Rebecca Catron Willis Ballard; stepchildren Marc Willis (Ashley) and Tori Willis White (Blake); and step-grandchildren Shon Willis, Holly Willis, Wyatt Benson, Maci Cunningham White, Layne White, Avery White, and Gavyn Cunningham.

He is also survived by his sons with Patricia Gladney Ballard Watkins: Forrest Shawn Ballard (Melissa), Erik Lee Ballard (Jennifer), and Brian Solomon Ballard; and grandchildren Alex and Ethan Ballard.

Rod was preceded in death by his father, Mayo Ballard; mother, Ruth Trammell Ballard Deal; stepfather, Gene Deal; and half-brother, Mark Deal.

Rod’s final years were marked by physical decline, but never a loss of spirit. He missed reading and writing, and most of all, being beside his beloved Beckie. The care and compassion shown by the staff at Fianna Hills Nursing and Rehab, along with the enduring support from dear friends, extended family, and church communities, sustained Rod and his family through the journey.

We extend special thanks to our extended family in Christ: Felisha McKenzie, our Bahá’í group, the Warren family, the Curry’s, Smith’s, D. Anderson, J. Kominick, T. Johnson, S. McAlester of Cameron, and our entire Community of Christ fellowship.

Rodney Ballard’s earthy journey has ended, but those who knew and loved him await a heavenly reunion. We can almost hear the Lord saying, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, June 27, 2025, at Evans & Miller Chapel in Poteau, Oklahoma, under the direction of Evans & Miller Funeral Home. All are welcome to join in honoring a life so fully and faithfully lived.

You may leave an online message at www.evansandmillerfuneralhome.com.