Joe Dee Ballard

Joe Ballard, a loyal friend, loving brother, and beloved uncle, passed away on Friday, January 2nd, 2026, after a brave month-long fight for his life. He was 71 years old. Born in Texas City, Texas on August 28, 1954, Joe was a lifelong resident of Texas, growing up in Orange and then Baytown, later making his home in Austin. He was known for his tough exterior, softened by a compassionate heart. He was consistently kind even to the end, as noted by the medical staff at St. David's South, where his nurses admired his kindness and gratitude, a testament to his character even in great pain. At the age of 18, Joe married Hope Hoffpauir, divorcing after one year, and alongside his mother he helped raise the son of his first wife. Following the premature death of his father, Joe stayed home to care for his mother, helping her adjust to a new life on her own. Years later, he married Kelly Fisher, divorcing after 21 years. Joe lived a fun filled, active, and varied life, marked by many diverse experiences. He trained and worked as an instrument fitter, contributing to the construction of refineries in Baytown, a skill that also enabled him to work in high-tech clean rooms in the Austin area, where he built robots used in the semiconductor manufacturing industry. However, it was the Austin music scene that truly captured his passion. His favorite and most defining role was serving as the stage manager for Omar and The Howlers, traveling the world with them, an experience that broadened his perspective and enriched his life. During his travels he assembled a large collection of rock music memorabilia which he would often show to his friends. In his later years he became an avid and accomplished gardener, growing many plants and sharing them and his knowledge with others. Joe is preceded in death by his older sister, Carolyn Ballard, father, Herman Ballard, Mother, Joyce Ballard, sister-in-law, Vivian Ballard, and many close friends who he always kept in his heart. He is survived by his younger brother, Jimi Ballard (Partner Amy), his younger sister, Kerryn Ballard (Husband James), his nieces, Rachel Ballard and Mimi Ballard, in-laws, cousins, and countless close friends, some dating back to his school days in Baytown. The family extends deep gratitude to the compassionate nurses and doctors at St. David's South who fought tirelessly for him. In accordance with Joe's wishes, cremation has taken place, and no formal funeral service will be held. Instead, a party to honor his life - filled with music, stories, and fond remembrance of the good, kind friend and brother who is no longer with us - will be scheduled in the coming months. Details for the gathering will be shared with friends and family when finalized.

Joe Dee Ballard

August 28, 1954 - January 2, 2026