Wayne Morris Ballard

Wayne Morris Ballard, a devoted husband, father, and true son of South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the age of 86. After a courageous battle with cancer, he leaves behind a legacy of immense character, laughter, and an unconditional love for his family.

Born in Spartanburg on June 6, 1939, Wayne was the adored son of the late Arthur Theodore and Carrie DeStaffno Ballard. He was the sixth of nine siblings and was predeceased by his brothers Clyde A. (Jackie) Ballard, Arthur T. (Ted) Ballard Jr., Charles F. (Frankie) Ballard, Dennis Ray Ballard, Robert Lewis Ballard, James B Ballard, and his sister Evelyn D. Ballard.

A 1957 graduate of Fairforest High School, where he played football, Wayne’s life changed forever when he met Gail Cecil during their high school years. They were married on June 10, 1959, beginning a beautiful 66-year journey defined by deep affection.

Wayne’s professional life was a testament to his work ethic. He began as a surveyor for the SC State Highway Department before rising to Purchasing Manager at Art Metal Corporation. When offered a promotion that required a move to New York, Wayne politely declined; he simply could not imagine a place better than South Carolina. This led to a lifelong career in commercial construction, first with Cecil’s Construction, Inc., then Buckeye Inc. with his father-in-law, and eventually establishing his own firm, Ballard Inc.

Beyond his professional success, Wayne served in the National Guard of South Carolina and was a dedicated member of The Grand Lodge of Ancient Free Masons of South Carolina and the Hejaz Shriners of Spartanburg. He

attended First Presbyterian Church of Spartanburg, SC and the Townville Presbyterian Church of Townville, SC

Wayne belonged to the outdoors. Whether hunting, fishing, or walking through the woods, he was happiest in nature—and he firmly believed the golf course counted as nature, too. He and Gail spent many cherished years at the home they designed and built on Lake Hartwell. The lake was a backdrop for countless "funny" fishing stories and boating adventures shared with friends and extended family. It also served as the home base for his 50-year tenure as a Clemson Football season ticket holder.

Of all his titles, "Pop” may have been his favorite. Wayne and Gail made frequent trips to the Northeast to visit their grandchildren in Connecticut and Vermont. He never missed a milestone, attending every graduation from Pre-K to college, always ready to share a story from his own life to help them navigate theirs.

Wayne is survived by his beloved wife, Gail Cecil Ballard; his two daughters and their spouses, Iris Ballard Mix (Ben) of Darien, CT, and Eve Ballard Norris (Darwin) of Shelburne, VT; and his three precious grandchildren, Ross B. Mix of Denver, CO, and Abbey Norris and Tripp Norris of Charleston, SC. He is also survived by his dear sister Carolyn B Davis. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, to whom he wishes "many happy birthdays," just as he always did throughout his life.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the First Presbyterian Church of Spartanburg, SC. A reception will follow in the church social hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in Wayne’s memory to: Naturaland Trust. PO Box 728, Greenville, SC 29602.