Maryetta Ballard was born on October 30, 1935, in the serene town of Whitesburg, Kentucky to the late Judge Lilly Yonts and Mary Ellen Amburgey Yonts. She embarked on a remarkable journey that would touch the lives of many until her passing on August 21, 2024, in Jackson, Tennessee, where she departed peacefully surrounded by her loved ones.
Throughout life, Maryetta dedicated herself to the land, spending her days farming with unwavering commitment and a spirit of resilience. Her connection to nature was evident in the way she nurtured both the crops and the relationships around her. Those privileged enough to know her could attest to her kind heart and infectious sense of humor, which brought lightheartedness to even the most arduous days.
Maryetta had a rich tapestry of interests, one of which was her love for quilting. Each quilt she crafted was a labor of love, stitched together with care and creativity, so that every piece told a story. Additionally, she found immense joy in fishing, often spending peaceful afternoons near the water, where laughter and tranquility mingled with the gentle ripples of the lake. She also enjoyed deep sea fishing, laughing if there was a storm coming, because she knew that the storm wouldn’t bother her. Her love for traveling was apparent to all who knew her, as her children’s fondest memories were taking trips with her and their father.
Above all, her proudest accomplishment was her family, with whom she shared a deep and abiding love. Maryetta’s heart swelled with pride for her big family, each member holding a special place in her life. The bonds she formed and nurtured will forever serve as a testament to her unwavering devotion and cherished legacy.
Left to cherish her memory are her children, Wallace Ballard, Judy Ballard, Debra Snow (Joy), Joyce Sellers (Harold), Shirley Farrington (Bryan), Rebecca Jeminez (Jim); siblings, Earnest Yonts (Shelby), Paul Yonts, Monroe Yonts (Mary), David Yonts (Paul); and Clara Davids; 14 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
Maryetta’s farewell will be held at Arrington Funeral Directors Jackson, Tennessee. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on August 24, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 6:00 PM. The burial will follow in Missouri.
As we remember Maryetta Ballard, let us celebrate the kindness she radiated, the laughter she shared, and the everlasting impact she made on all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
