Vera Juanita Ballew

Vera Juanita Ballew, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great- grandmother passed away on June 15, 2025, in Hot Springs, Arkansas, at the age of 91. Born on September 9, 1933, in Avant, Arkansas, she was the daughter of Jesse Godwin and Pearl Meeks, whose legacy of love and resilience she carried throughout her life.

Juanita was known for her deep affection for her family and her ability to create a warm and inviting home. She is survived by her three children, Judy Rone, Amy Kelley (Darrel), and Vince Ballew; Her brother, Dwight Godwin(Donna); Her grandchildren, Cheryl McClard(Fred), Dale Hamilton(Angie), and Dixie Ballew-Miller(Michael), along with great-grandchildren Nathan McClard, Nick McClard, Natalie Grizzle, Ryan Hamilton, Wesley Hamilton and 6 great-great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Jesse Godwin and Pearl Meeks; Her husband, Pete Ballew; Her brothers, Morrilton Godwin, Harvey Godwin, and Gary Godwin; Her sisters, Wilma Fisher, Verna Williams; And her son, Randy Ballew.

Juanita had a special place in her heart for quilting, crocheting, and playing bluegrass music alongside her friends in the West Mountain Bluegrass and Gospel group. She dedicated her life, alongside Pete, to care for and give her son, Randy Ballew, the best life possible.

A visitation to honor Juanita’s life will be held on June 19, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Her funeral service will take place the following day, June 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Avant Community Church in Jessieville, Arkansas with Brother Roger Smith officiating. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery.

Pallbearers will include Ted Fisher, Jesse Godwin, Greg Terry, James Sims, Jerrime Sims, and Darrel Kelley.

Honorary Pallbearers include Dr. Mark Aspell, Dr. Scott Irwin, Dr. Hunter Carrington, the staff at Lake Hamilton Health & Rehab, and Nathan McClard, Nick McClard, Ryan Hamilton and Wesley Hamilton.