Ima Jean Ballard
Ima Jean Ballard, 64, ended
her struggle against cancer on Sunday (May 27, 2007) in Kansas City.
She was born on May 25, 1943,
in Kansas City, Mo., to Virgil and Mamie (Brown) Walters. They preceded her in
death. She lived in Peabody. She had most recently worked at the Sunshine
Academy in Newton as the parent liaison, but as better know as "Grandma
Ima." She was a hard working, energetic and a giving person. She was
loving when needed and tough-minded when necessary. She loved playing cards and
only cheated when necessary! Her devotion to her family and friends was the
hallmark of her life. Her family was blessed to have her as a wife, mother,
aunt, sister and grandmother. We love you and miss you so much, you will always
be with us.
Survivors include her husband
of 47 years Kenneth Ballard; daughters, Debbie Fairfield and Elizabeth Diane
Yunghans; son, Steven Ballard; grandchildren, Matthew and Dylan Fairfield; Adam
Herting; Abbygail Yunghans; Madeline and Joey Ballard; brother, Jerrell
Walters; sister, Barbara Vann; and many cherished relatives and friends.
Plants and flowers can be
placed in a memorial garden at a gathering at the home of Diane Yunghans form 2
to 3 p.m. Saturday.