James Ball

James Edward Ball, 88, of Little Rock, Arkansas passed away on December 10, 2021. He was born one of nine children to the late Lee and Mildred (Olgesby) Ball on January 20, 1933 in Saline County, Arkansas.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, JoAnn Beck Ball, and seven brothers.

James is survived by his son, Ricky Ball (Gloria) and his daughter, Debra Bridges (Paul); five grandkids, Jaclyn Gray (Cory), Jeremy Ball, Jennifer Melton (Jesse) Jason, Jacob Ball; six great grandchildren, Ellis and Caiden Gray, Quinton and Rori Ball Cole and Chance Melton, and several extended family and friends.

He served in the Army during the Korean War and worked as a diesel mechanic retiring in 1986. He enjoyed gardening and was known for his annual Christmas parties.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Visitation will be 6:00 to 8:00 PM, Monday, December 13, 2021 at Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 AM, Tuesday, December 14, 2021, at St. Mary Catholic Church, St. Vincent, AR. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery. Pallbeaers include: Jeremy Ball, Jason Ball, Jacob Ball, Quinton Ball, Paul Bridges and Jesse Melton.  Honorary pallbeaers are Cole Melton, Chance Melton, Ellis Gray and Caiden Gray.