Robert Hall Ballard, 93, passed away on May 7, 2016. Robert was born in Suffolk to the late Alonzo and Lillian Ballard. He was predeceased by his wife, Ann H. Ballard, daughter, Babs, and brother, Wood Ballard.

Robert was an alumnus of Virginia Tech, a decorated veteran of World War II and survivor of the Battle of the Bulge, where he led a unit that held the line. He was a member of Main Street United Methodist Church, the American Legion, past president of the Lions Club, a member of Foreign Wars, volunteer for Obici Hospital lifeline installations, a member of Nansemond River Power Squadron, past chairmen of the Draft Board, and was also on the board of directors for American Bank, Central Fidelity, Wachovia (Wells Fargo). Robert also enjoyed boating in the Nansemond River and respected hard workers.

Left to cherish his memory are his son, Robert H. Ballard Jr.; daughter, Nancy L. Ballard; brother, William B. Ballard; grandchildren, Robert Ballard III, Patrick Ballard, Terin Vivian, Liane Vivian, Alina Vivian; and other loving family members.

A funeral service will be held Thursday, May 12, 2016, at 11 a.m. at Main Street United Methodist Church, 202 N. Main St., Suffolk, with the Rev. Myrtle F. Hatcher officiating. A private entombment will be held at Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends Wednesday, May 11, 2016, from 4 to 6 p.m. at R.W. Baker & Co. Funeral Home and Crematory, 509 W. Washington St., Suffolk.

Memorial donations may be offered to Main Street United Methodist Church, Endowment Fund or to the charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be offered at www.RWBakerFH.com.