Ballard, Dixie
loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, passed away on October 20, 2023, at age 96. Born on May 31, 1927, in Huntington, West Virginia, Dixie married Arnold "Inky" Ballard in 1944 and moved to Dayton, Ohio after the war where they raised 2 daughters, Patty and Connie. Their iconic home on Cushing Avenue eventually became the comforting childhood destination for their grandchildren. Perfect homegrown tomatoes, backyard badminton, Marion's Pizza, and Saturday garage sales were eagerly anticipated each visit. Somehow, Mamaw's chocolate milk tasted better than anyone else's. Dixie was a natural beauty, both inside and out, and NEVER left the house without her lipstick! She was the epitome of class. She was an avid reader of the newspaper, often clipping important articles and coupons for others. She never missed a loved one's birthday or anniversary, sending special cards a couple of days BEFORE the date to ensure it would arrive on time. Throughout her life, Dixie continued to live with fierce independence and a zest for life. She loved music and dancing. She was determined to live independently, and managed to do so until the end of her 96 years. Dixie is preceded in death by her husband, Arnold "Inky" Ballard; mother and father, John and Rebecca Cremeans; her brother, Johnny Cremeans; her sister Rose Stahl; and her grandson, Justin Zmijewski. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Connie and Matthew Zmijewski; her grandchildren Bryan Zmijewski and Laura (Zmijewski) Grant; and her many great-grandchildren. Dixie Ballard made life "wondaful" for everyone and she will be dearly missed. Celebration of Life services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, October 27, 2023 at David's Community Mausoleum Chapel. All are welcome. Condolences may be sent to www.tobiasfuneralhome.com
Ballard, Dixie
