Patricia Ballard

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Patricia Ballard, who died peacefully on June 14, 2025, at Brookdale Senior Living Community in Montrose, Ohio. It brings comfort to know that her close friend and personal assistant was by her side, holding her hand as she took her final breath, while her son and granddaughter were on the phone with her.

Patricia was born on March 18, 1929, in Brooklyn, New York, to Eleanor and Walter Dennis. She was raised in a loving home that instilled in her a strong sense of community, faith, and service—values that guided her throughout her life and her deep involvement with her church. She was a devoted member of her church and took great pride in helping design and furnish the church’s sacristy, a space that reflected her faith and dedication to the parish.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Ballard, former mayor of Akron, Ohio. She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia, her son, Mark; her granddaughter, Renee; and a large extended family on John’s side.

Patricia found joy in hiking, playing tennis, traveling, and enjoying a good gin. She was also deeply committed to preserving history and community spaces. Her contributions included key roles in the refurbishing of a historic lighthouse in the Adirondacks, an addition to an Episcopal church in Medina, Ohio, and the creation of a memorial garden at the University of Akron.

Patricia touched many lives through her dedication, generosity, and sense of humor. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

The family invites those who wish to honor Patricia’s legacy to make a memorial donation to the Eleanor and Walter Dennis Endowment Fund at the University of Akron.

Services in care of the Billow Funeral Homes and Crematory, 85 N. Miller Road Akron, OH 44333 (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)