Edith Headley Ballard (Lebanon)'s Obituary
Edith Christine Headley Ballard, daughter of Homer and Florence Parker Vandivort was born April 16, 1926 near Houston, Missouri. She departed this life October 25, 2013 at her home in Lebanon, Missouri at the age of 87 years 6 months and 10 days. Her father’s family moved into Missouri from W. Virginia after the turn of the 20th century.
She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Dora Fry and by her husband, Gerald Ballard. She is survived by five sons, Bruce Headley, Strafford, Missouri, Steve Headley, Lebanon, MO, Wendell Headley and his wife, Joy, Lebanon, MO, Sam Headley and his wife, Sherry, Lebanon and Robert and his wife, Tina of Lebanon, Missouri. Two brothers, Norman and Billy Vandivort both of Houston, Missouri. One sister, Estella Hannah, Cabool, Missouri. Also a number of grand and great-grandchildren. Edith grew up in Texas County and lived her adult life in Texas, Wright and Laclede Counties. She graduated from Drury University with both bachelor and masters degrees. She taught school for over 38 years . The last eighteen years she taught first grade at Conway Elementary School. She was an active member of the First Freewill Baptist Church in Lebanon and was active in every aspect of the church as long as her health permitted. She especially championed children’s causes and was very interested in child evangelism. Her faith was central in her life and she lived her faith in her daily walk in life. Edith loved her sons and was proud of their accomplishments. She loved family gatherings and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved doing artwork and painting, many of the things she did as a school teacher with the children. She was a member of the Retired Teachers Association and always enjoyed attended their meetings. Edith’s legacy will live on through her sons and grandchildren. Her heritage of faith and values will continue into the future through her family and her contribution will be long remembered by all her family and friends.
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