Mr. Richard Barten Ballew, age 70, of Boaz, Alabama, passed away peacefully at his home while surrounded by his family on the afternoon of November 19, 2025. Born on May 22, 1955, in Marshall County, Alabama, Richard was the cherished son of the late Robert Lester Ballew, Jr. and Damaris Shelton Ballew.
Richard spent his childhood in the Arab community and graduated from Arab High School in 1973. He furthered his education by earning an associate’s degree. Over 31 years ago, he married Kristen J. Moran Ballew. Family was Richard’s greatest priority, and he was always present offering his love and support. He cherished his daughters, Nicole and Celeste and their families.
A general contractor in the construction industry, Richard was committed to excellence and took pride in his work. He was hands-on with projects and skilled in operating all types of heavy machinery. Richard never met a stranger. He was a loyal and dedicated Alabama fan; he also enjoyed trips to the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg. Richard was a proud member of Boaz Masonic Lodge #546.
Richard’s memory will be cherished by his wife, Kristen J. Ballew; his daughters and sons-in-law, Celeste and Brian Wooten, and Nicole and Cody Myers; his grandchildren, Emma Claire Dooley (Garrison), Kalena Smart (Gavin), Ava Catherine Wooten, Aiden Wooten, Garrett Myers, Rylan Myers, and Dalton Myers; great-grandchildren, Blu Smart and Bodie Smart; sisters-in-law, Soundra Ballew and Sheena Shevlin (Justin); brothers-in-law, Daniel Moran and Shane Moran; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Lester Ballew, Jr.; his mother, Damaris Shelton Ballew; and his brother, Dr. Robert Ballew III.
Service for Richard will be at Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel on Sunday, November 23, 2025. Friends and family will gather for visitation 12:00 noon until the funeral service begins at 2:00pm. Brother Clint Maze will be officiating. Escorting Richard to his resting place in Arab Memorial Cemetery will be Aiden Wooten, Garrett Myers, Rylan Myers, Dalton Myers, Brian Wooten, Cody Myers, Gavin Smart, and Garrison Dooley. Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel entrusted with arrangements. In lieu of flowers consider donations to either Children’s of Alabama or A Team Ministries 1809 Oxmoor Road, Suite 101, Birmingham, AL 35209.
