"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."  II Timothy 4:7-8

Jimmy E. Ball, Sr. was born on November 15, 1941, in Canton, Ohio to the late Louis E., Sr. and Gladys S. Ball. He left his earthly body to go to rest on Friday, January 5, 2024, after a short illness. He was the oldest of five siblings.

Jimmy went to McKinley High School. He received his Higher Education from various Colleges. He also served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1965. He worked at the Maryland State Penitentiary, CETA, JTPA, and Detroit Diesel (retired in 1999). He was the CEO of his Fed Ex Franchise Business (retired in 2006). He concluded his work history at Walmart Canton, West Tuscarawas St. (retired in 2020).

Jimmy was wise beyond his years, a diligent worker, and a great provider. He loved his family and friends. He will be dearly missed by all who were blessed to know him. His favorite pastime was fishing.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife of 41 years, Shirley Turner Ball; one brother, Louis E. Ball, Jr.; one deceased brother, Eugene Ball; and two sisters, Sandra Herndon and Sharon Ball; one honorary sister, Lucy (Salanda) Whitfield; four sons, Jimmy E. Ball, Jr., Myles G. Ball, Jimmal C. Ball, James L. (Eve)Turner; and honorary son, Kevin Wilson; four daughters, Ralenna Hall, Leticia (Rawlyn) Cook, Madelyn Turner, and Lavona Turner; and his devoted godson and goddaughter, Apostle Charles and Nicole Mackey. He leaves behind a host of beautiful grandchildren, great grandchildren, relatives, and friends.