JOHN F. BALL

DALZELL - John F. Ball was born on Nov. 8, 1954, in Tampa, Florida, to the late Mae Emma and Charlie Clarence Ball. The Lord called him home on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2020.

At an early age, John joined St. John Progressive Missionary Baptist Church. After graduating from high school, he joined the United States Air Force, from which he retired after 23 years and 10 months. He also worked for the United States Postal Service, until he retired. In his spare time, he loved to cook and try out new recipes and foods. He would barbecue anytime of the year and would say "I don't need a season, just a reason." He touched so many lives and made a difference to so many people. John will definitely be missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Mae Emma Ball; and sister, Aria Nunn.

John leaves to cherish his memories: his loving wife, Lessie Ball; children, John Ball Jr. (Cicely), Bryon Ball (Gina), Laquita Ball, Niesha Ball and Rodney Ball; stepson, Willie J. Gilmore Jr.; brother, Charlie Ball Jr. (Patricia); sisters, Barbara Ball-Bell, Doris Jones (the Rev. Arthur Jones) and Christine Poole (James); a host of grandchildren, one great-grandchild, nieces, nephews and other sorrowing relatives and friends.

The graveside service for John Ball will be held at 3 p.m. Monday at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, 4170 Percival Road.

Bostick-Tompkins Funeral Home of Sumter Inc. has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.bosticktompkinsinc.com.