Emma Jean Ballard

By Editor | March 28, 2025 |

Emma Jean Ballard, a radiant light in the lives of all who knew her, passed peacefully into eternity on March 23, 2025, at the age of 65 in Paris, KY. Born to Art Ballard and Millie Spicer on January 18, 1960, in Irvine, KY, Emma’s warmth and grace touched many hearts throughout her lifetime.
Emma spent her years devoted to the role of homemaker, a testament to her dedication to her loved ones. She found joy and purpose in the comforts of home, enriching the lives of her beloved 36-year companion, Bobby Johnson, her cherished daughter, Tracy (Leeson Prater) Ballard, and her adored grandchildren, Shelby Madison Prater, Kendall Marie Ballard, and Trace Allen Hafley, who will carry forward her legacy of love.
Emma was the fun-loving center of her large family, which includes her caring siblings T. J., Lewis, Melvin, Buck, Travis Ballard, and Linda Evans, as well as a host of treasured nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings O.J. Ballard, James Walter Ballard, Martha Dray, and Rosa Dray.
Known for her loving, kind, and funny nature, Emma’s laughter resonated at countless family gatherings, a sound as sweet as the dishes she loved to cook. A fierce card player and avid Candy Crush enthusiast, Emma appreciated the simple pleasures in life, cherishing every moment spent with her family.
Emma’s spirit, characterized by unwavering devotion and a joyous heart, will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched. As we bid farewell, we celebrate Emma Joan Ballard’s life, remembering a remarkable woman who made our world infinitely brighter by being part of it.
A memorial service was conducted at 7:00 PM Wednesday March 26, 2025, at the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home Chapel, 1120 Main St., Paris, KY by Rev. Robert Raglin.
Visitation was from 5:00 PM Wednesday March 26, 2025, until the hour of service at the funeral home.
The funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Lusk-McFarland Funeral Home, 1120 Main Street, Paris, KY. The online guestbook is at www.Lusk-McFarland.com and a 24-hour funeral information line can be reached by calling 859-987-4387.