Stephen Dale Ballard

Stephen Dale Ballard, of Antioch, Arkansas, entered the gates of Heaven on September 15, 2026, at the age of 69. He was born on September 20, 1956, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Lewis Doyle and Anna Sylveen Ballard.

Steve was raised in Missouri before moving to Arkansas during his high school years, where he would ultimately meet his wife, make his home and raise his family. He built a long career with Union Pacific Railroad, working as an engineer—a profession that suited his hardworking, determined nature.

Steve was a man of deep faith who believed in living by the Word of God. He raised his family according to the Bible and was a member of Open Arms Assembly of God. His faith was not simply something he spoke about; it was a foundation upon which he built his life and his family.

He was known for being honest, generous, strong-willed, and very opinionated—and anyone who knew Steve probably has a story or two about that last one. If you asked him, he was never afraid to tell you what he thought. Beneath that strong personality was a man who loved deeply and gave generously to the people he called his own.

His greatest joy was his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Tammy, and his daughters, Brandy Tripp (Andrew), Kerri Jo Jones (Brandon), and Lindsay Farmer (Neal). He was a proud grandfather to Drew, Stephen, Matty, Eva, Daisy, Reese, Faith, and Ryan, whose lives were made richer by having him as their Pappy.

He is also survived by his twin sister, Gale, along with his extended family and many friends who loved and knew him.

Steve was preceded in death by his beloved son, Stephen Colby, and his parents, Lewis Doyle and Anna Sylveen Ballard.

Steve leaves behind more than memories. He leaves behind a family shaped by his faith, his convictions, his generosity, and his love. His legacy will live on in his children and grandchildren and in the lessons he taught them—especially the importance of faith, family, honesty, and standing firmly on what you believe.

Though he will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing that the faith he spent his life teaching them is the same faith that gives them hope today.

“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” – Joshua 24:15.

Visitation will be 2:00-3:00 p.m. Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Open Arms Assembly of God, followed by funeral service at 3:00 p.m. Burial will be in Sylvania Cemetery. Online guest book at www.smithfamilycares.com