Jimmy Douglas "J.D." Ballard passed away at his home on Ballard Road in Van Alstyne, Texas on August 14, 2021. J.D., born October 3, 1937, was the son to Garland and Ruby Ballard of Van Alstyne, TX. He graduated from Van Alstyne High School in 1956. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree from East Texas State University eventually earning his Master of Science, Agronomy. In the early part of his life he also served in the United States Air Force Reserves. J.D. married his first wife Lynn Mullinix, ne Davis in 1961 and had 2 children, Sharon and Don.
J.D. had a 30-year career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Soil Conservation Service that kept him close to the land and helping others. J.D. served the communities of Fannin and Johnson Counties assisting farmers, ranchers, families and students. He was well-known for helping F.F.A. students with grass judging competitions. He was also a member of the Kiwanis Club in Cleburne, TX serving in many leadership roles over the years, including President and being named "Outstanding Kiwanian". While in Cleburne, J.D. met and married Ona Ballard, ne Lee in 1977 where they lived until their retirement.
J.D. loved working on his farm, especially alongside his brother Gary. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, sports, researching genealogy, and reading mystery and suspense. J.D. wanted most of all to be outside in the field or in his gardens. He never met a plant that he didn't like. You could count on J.D. knowing all about plants, propagating new ones, learning about them, or bringing you one. His interest and curiosity about all varieties of life was abundant. J.D. treasured the Van Alstyne community and especially the school sports teams. He was a regular in the stands, and he supported the youth anytime they were playing.
He was also active in the community. Upon his retirement, he returned to Van Alstyne and immediately began serving. He was elected several times to the South Grayson Special Utility District and was a member of the Van Alstyne Economic Development Board, among others. He was devoted to First Christian Church, and the family of God. Finding time to visit with people every day, he loved all his friends and family.
J.D. was preceded in death by his wife Ona Ballard, his parents, and his grandparents Herbert and Dade Ballard of Sedalia, TX and Albert and Alma Spain of Van Alstyne, TX.
He is survived by his children Sharon Ballard (Carol) of Falls Church, VA; Don Ballard of Austin, TX; and Lynn Mullinix (mother of his children and close friend) of Van Alstyne, TX; brother Gary Ballard (Marguerite) of Van Alstyne, TX, and brother-in-law Bailey Lee of Norton, TX.