Margaret Frances Calloway Ballard

Margaret Frances Calloway Ballard, born October 6, 1929, transitioned peacefully to her heavenly home on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at the age of 96 at Rosewood Cypress of Raleigh, North Carolina. Galax, Virginia was where she spent 83 years of her life and to her death she called home.

She married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Jimmy Ballard. Together they enjoyed a life serving their community and church and traveling the world. One of their greatest blessings was raising their two children, Gary Ballard and Nan Ballard Northcut.

Margaret was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She lived a long life marked by kindness, strength, faith, and dedication to her family. Her gentle spirit, warm smile, and caring heart touched all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Ballard, and other loved ones who welcomed her home. She is survived by her children, Gary Ballard (Beth) and Nan Ballard Northcut (Joseph); six grandchildren: Laura Jane Ballard Griffeth (Wes), Emma Scott Ballard Widenhouse (Paxton), Cameron Cruise, Caden Cruise, Margaret Northcut Sinclair (Tyler), and Shea Northcut Heimbach (Joel); eight great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory and the love she shared throughout her life.

Margaret found joy in simple pleasures, family gatherings, golf, tennis, serving her church, and caring for those around her. Her legacy lives on in the values she instilled, the memories she created, and the lives she touched.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and staff at The Cypress of Raleigh, the hospice staff, and friends who provided comfort and support during her final days.

A family celebration of Margaret’s life will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, June 28, 2026 at Felts Memorial Cemetery in Galax, Virginia.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the First Baptist Church Galax, Virginia.

“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me [Jesus]. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” — John 14:1-3 (NLT)

Margaret will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered forever.