Bobby (Bob) Ray Ballew

Bobby (Bob) Ray Ballew of Rusk Texas was born March 16, 1932, in Maydelle, Texas to William Forrest Ballew and Ethel Ford Ballew. He passed peacefully at the age of 94 in Jacksonville.
Bob found his greatest joy in his family. He loved them and they loved him dearly. The time he spent with them was what he loved most. Whether it be just sitting and visiting, driving around looking at things, fishing, camping, going on trips, and going to garage sales he was always ready to go.
He served in the United States Army and was a member of the 49th Armored National Guard.
During his lifetime he was a jack of all trades. He was a pipe fitter and owned his own businesses for many years. We’ve seen him do so many things through the years, and it wasn’t always easy, but he always managed to get it done with his determination and strength and sometimes even a little engineering he got it done. He was a strong and powerful man not only in his work but also in his faith and love for the Lord. When he started going back to church, he never turned back and talked to his children and grandchildren about going to church and following the Lord.
He was a man who loved to talk and joke around and never met a stranger. He has taught his family many traits through the years and leaves each of us with great memories that will make us laugh and cry for the years to come. We will hold you and your memories in our hearts forever.
We will see you again, Papaw
He was proceeded in death by his parents; wife Francile Castle Ballew; sons Steve Ballew, J.R. Kinard, and daughter Donna Smith. Also, brothers Jim, James, Burt, Pearl, and Dale and grandson Jamie Ballew.
He is survived by 2 sons and daughters-in-law: Edwin & Renda Ballew, Elbert & Becky Ballew of Rusk; daughters: Bobby Burch of Rusk, Debi Landers of Freeport and a son and daughter-in- law Grover Hargrove & Val Hargrove of El Campo; 17 grandchildren, 44 great grandchildren, 27 great great grandchildren, several nieces and special friend Christine Miracle.
Grandsons will serve as pallbearers and great grandsons as honorary pallbearers.
A time of visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home, Rusk, Texas. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Chapel of Wallace-Thompson Funeral Home with Bro. Jack White officiating.