Olen Gregory "Greg" Ballard

     Olen Gregory “Greg” Ballard, age 66 of Jackson, MO, formerly of Anna died peacefully, Wednesday, March 25, 2026. He was born November 28, 1959 in Herrin, the son of Olen Adrian “Pat” and Betty Ann (Frey) Ballard.

     Greg is survived by his two daughters, Miranda Christina Eddy and Riley Ann Ballard Stovall and son in law, Scott James Stovall all of Jackson, Mo; grandchildren, Rowen, Kamden, Jude and Maxine; three sisters, Sandra (Mike) McKinnon, Bev (Bob) Warshawsky, and Cindy (Bruce) Mosby; brother, Steve (Teresa Bauer) Ballard; other extended family and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

     Greg was a good, honest man, he dearly loved his family. He was a natural salesman, who had the gift of being able to talk to anyone as if they had been friends for years. Greg was affectionately referred to as “Greg of the long goodbyes”, there was always one more story to tell and one last hug. He was very brave in his last few weeks, it was never goodbye, just “I’ll see you later”.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions are preferred to Hospice of Southern Illinois.