Gerald "Jerry" R. Ballard

Gerald “Jerry” R. Ballard, 68, of Little York, IL, passed away at 9:50 a.m., Monday, June 26, 2017 at his home.

He was born on August 12, 1948 in Rock Island County, IL, the son of Richard “Dick” A. and Elizabeth “Betty” J. (Bertelsen) Ballard. Jerry was raised and educated in Warren County and graduated from Yorkwood High School in 1966. He later attended the Rankin Trade School in St. Louis, MO.

Jerry served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War.

Jerry married Karen Aper. He later married Rosemary “Rosie” Gipson on March 6, 1982 in Altona, IL, she survives.

Jerry first worked as a diesel mechanic at Munson Transportation for 24 years. He then worked for Myron Simpson at the Simpson Auction House for 15 years before buying the auctions house and starting Ballard Auction Service, which he operated for 15 years. Jerry loved going to auctions, doing yard work, golfing, and spending time with his family. He was a member of the Little York Lions Club, Monmouth V.F.W. and American Legion.

Surviving Jerry is his wife, Rosie Ballard of Little York, IL; daughters, Cindy ( Donna) Ballard of Montezuma, NY, Tricia ( John) Aylesworth of Mt. Pulaski, IL and Brandy (Sonda) Walsh of Tiffin, IA; his grandchildren, Shelby Young, Emma Aylesworth, Elaine Aylesworth, Kayla Aylesworth; great granddaughter, Parker Bailey; his mother, Elizabeth J. “Betty” Ballard of Monmouth; 5 brothers, John (Betty) Ballard on Monmouth, Jim (Lola) Ballard of Monmouth, Joe (Donna) Ballard of Kirkwood, Jeff (Peg) Ballard of Little York and Jay (Jean) Ballard of Little York; numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Graveside Services will be at Noon, Saturday, July 1, 2017 at Little York Cemetery, Little York, IL. Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Friday, June 30, 2017 at McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory, Monmouth. Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials can be made to the Jerry Ballard Memorial Fund.