Donnie Joe Ballard

Donnie Joe Ballard, 62 of Dumas, passed away on Saturday, June 21, 2025. Funeral services are scheduled for 11 o’clock in the morning on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at First Baptist Church with Pastor Johnny Widener of Bible Baptist Church, officiating. Interment will follow in the Dumas Cemetery under the direction of Beeson ~ Morrison Funeral Directors. The family will receive friends between 5 and 7 o’clock in the evening on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Donnie was born on March 5, 1963, in Dumas, TX to James and Ann (Alexander) Ballard. When he was one year old, his family moved to Plainview where Donnie was raised and graduated from high school. He married Valerie Gould on August 22, 1981, in Plainview.

Donnie and his dad started Ballard Plumbing in Dumas in 1982. Donnie loved to work and enjoyed spending time with his “boys” who affectionately referred to him as “boss-man”. Over the years, Donnie was able to work daily with nearly the entirety of his immediate family. The only thing that could draw him away from plumbing was his grandchildren, each one had Bop wrapped around their fingers.

Donnie had many passions. Donnie spent years as a paramedic and instructor. He loved to ride motorcycles, spend time in the mountains, fish, shoot firearms, watch football (and Hallmark movies), and loved dirt and digging in it.

Donnie was not only the heart of his family but a true light in the community. Many knew him as a friend, neighbor, or favorite Santa Claus; a role he cherished deeply and carried with love, joy, and that unforgettable twinkle in his eye. He had a way of making everyone feel seen and special, whether through a kind word, a warm hug, or a hearty laugh. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and holiday magic will live on in all of us who were lucky enough to know him.

Donnie was preceded in death by his parents.

Donnie is survived by his wife Valerie of the home; children: B.J. Ballard and wife Jessica of Dumas, TX, Heather Jolly and husband Cody of Dumas, TX and Krystal San Miguel and husband Derick of Amarillo, TX; grandchildren: Rhylee, Cylus, Barrett, Liliana, Emilia, and Huck; brother: Jerry Ballard and wife Agnes of Amarillo, TX along with their children: Joshua, David and Ann Marie and families; brother in law: Jeff Gould and wife Lisa of Coppell, TX along with their children: Ashlea and Lauren and families; uncle: Joe Ballard and wife Jelene of Dumas, TX; and friend Scott Higgenbotham.

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family suggests donations may be made here: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLXVEYYPVP59Z/checkout/NYH6O7NMIGWZ44MODP7DTUMF