Danny Lee Ballard, Sr.

Danny Lee Ballard was born on Dec. 5, 1940, in Leachville, Ark., to Paul and Nina Ballard. He was raised in Shafter where he met the love of his life, Sandra Ebling. Danny and Sandra were married on Aug. 3, 1962. They had 3 children: Danny Ballard, Jr., CaSaundra Underwood and Edward Ballard.

Danny enjoyed fishing and had the patience of Job waiting for that one big trout. He was a faithful member of Valley Bible Church in Shafter and Christ Church of the Valley in Bakersfield. Danny worked at the US Department of Agriculture Cotton Research Station for 43 years and retired in July 2003. During his retirement Danny enjoyed traveling with Sandra, visiting 32 states in the USA and 27 foreign countries. Danny and Sandra shared 59 years of marriage before Danny went home to be with his Lord and Savior.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra; three children, Danny, Jr. and wife Gabriela of Vernonia, Ore., CaSaundra Underwood and husband Brent and Edward and wife Valarie of Bakersfield, nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Danny's family would like to thank Bristol Hospice Care and his caregivers, Walter Stormont and Casey Gonzalez of Agape In Home Care, for their love and care given to Danny.