Ballard Bailey, age 83, of Kingston, Tennessee, formerly of Edgarton, West Virginia, passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026 at Roane Medical Center in Harriman.  He was born March 25, 1943 in Thacker, West Virginia. He was the son of the late Albert and Dorothy Bailey.

Ballard proudly served his country as a Vietnam veteran in the United States Army. After his service, he worked for many years as a coal miner with McCoy Elkhorn until his retirement.  Known for his kindness, warm smile, and gentle spirit, he was loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Georgia Hyatt Bailey; sisters, Janis Coniglio, Virginia Bailey, Margie Hatfield, and Eveleen Cisco; brother, Woodrow Bailey; daughter, Debbie Blankenship; son, Johnnie Beavers; granddaughter, Janice Kay Bailey; and grandson, Ethan Sincell.

He is survived by his children, Ballard (Susanna) Bailey, John (Stacie) Bailey, Delbert Ray (Stacey) Bailey, Stephen (Christina) Bailey, and Karen Browning.  He also leaves behind his brother, Delbert Bailey, and sisters, Estella Cisco, Patty Bailey, Mary Dong, and Debbie Jude.

Ballard’s legacy continues through his many grandchildren: Ballard Bailey III, Angel Bailey, John Bailey Jr., David Bear Bailey, Jacob Bailey, Zena Bailey, Matthew Bailey, Benjamin Bailey, Erika Preece, Heather Ventura, Candice Gilman, Hannah Hill, Stephanie Bailey, Zach Browning, Seth Browning, Amanda Gilman, and Cassidy Adkins.

He was further blessed with great-grandchildren: Carter Bailey, Oliver Bailey, Milo Bailey, Theo Bailey, Willow Bailey, Bear Bailey, Blaine Bailey, Aubree Preece, Conor Preece, Gavin Preece, Mya Ventura, Miguel Ventura, Cooper Collet, Callan Hill, Erin Browning, Levi Browning, Devin Gillman, Kayelea Gillman, Patrick Adkins, and Keegan Adkins.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to family friend, Paige Bandy for her years of support, guidance, and the many times she stepped in to help when Ballard needed her.

The family will receive friends 11:00 – 1:00 pm, Friday, May 15, 2026 at Fraker Funeral Home in Kingston with funeral service following at 1:00 pm, with Rev. Chris Stickrod officiating.  Interment will follow the service at Hazelwood Cemetery with full military honors conducted by the Roane County Honor Guard. Online register book can be signed at www.FrakerFuneralHome.net.  Fraker Funeral Home of Kingston in charge of arrangements.