Ballard, John 77, of Dade City, FL, died July 21, 2013. He is survived by his wife, of nearly 56 years, Joan; daughters, Terry Hurd, Mary Ann Kominsky, and Susan Graffweg; 5 brothers; Walter, Douglas, Dewey, Eric, and Ray; 1 sister, Martha Jeffcoat; and a host of adoring cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by 1 sister, Jewel Jeffcoat. John was born in Andalusia, AL on Dec. 14, 1935 and moved to Dade City with his family in 1951. After High School, he served as a Marine until he was honorably discharged in 1956. He came back to Dade City to marry and start a family. John worked at Withlacoochee River Electric for many years, prior to starting his own appliance business. After retiring, he spent the rest of his life taking care of his family and enjoying a variety of hobbies, including winemaking, fishing, and gardening. He loved to garden and in recent years was well known for his collard greens. Although Parkinson's Disease slowed him down, John didn't allow it to stop him from doing all the things he enjoyed. John's family would like to send a special thanks to the staff of HPH Hospice for all their loving care and kindness. In lieu of flowers, and in memory of John, donations may be made to HPH Hospice, 12107 Majestic Blvd., Hudson, FL 34667. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 25, 2013, from 10-11am, at Hodges Family Funeral Home, Hwy 301, Dade City, with a Service to follow at 11am. Interment will be at Chapel Hill Gardens.