Craig Ballard Obituary

Craig Alan Ballard

June 25, 1955 – July 19, 2025

Craig Alan Ballard, 70, of Bolt, WV, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Saturday, July 19, 2025.

Born in Beckley, WV, on June 25, 1955, Craig was the firstborn son of the late George and Joyce Ballard.

He graduated from Barboursville High School in 1973 and attended Marshall University before embarking on a lifelong career in recruiting and sales—a profession perfectly suited to his outgoing personality, quick wit, and passion for connecting with people. Over the years, Craig took his family on countless adventures up and down the East Coast, creating cherished memories that will endure forever.

Craig leaves behind his devoted wife of 47 years, Angela (Trent) Ballard. Angie was his steady hand, his greatest cheerleader, and the love of his life. To Craig, she was his “Angie Baby”—the one person who understood every layer of his humor, mischief, and heart. Their love, filled with laughter, partnership, and unwavering devotion, was an inspiration to all who knew them.

He is survived by his three children, who adored him beyond measure: Craig “Buzzy” Ballard of Bolt, WV; Kimberly (Josh) Honaker of Newport, NC; and Lori Beth of Bolt, WV, who served as his devoted caretaker, confidant, and partner-in-crime during his final years.

Craig was a proud and doting grandfather to five grandchildren, who were the light of his life: Madeline, Olivia, and Joshua Honaker Jr. of Newport, NC; and Lennie and Marley Hartshorn of Bolt, WV. To Craig, they were all prodigies destined for greatness, and he never missed an opportunity to brag about them. More importantly, he taught them the “important things” in life: how to pick lottery numbers, sneak candy past their parents, and be fiercely competitive in any game they played.

He is also survived by his brother and best friend, William “Billy” Ballard (Renee); his sister, Cynthia Patrick of Ohio; and a wide circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends who adored him.

Craig was, simply put, extraordinary. A golf-obsessed, music-loving master of random facts, he had a gift for making people laugh—even on the hardest days. He taught his family to find joy in life’s small moments, to laugh when things didn’t go as planned, and to never take themselves too seriously. His mischievous grin, quick humor, and big heart transformed even ordinary days into moments of joy.

His family finds comfort in knowing that somewhere in Heaven, Craig is on the best golf course imaginable, with his dog Joey Pickles as his caddy. Every drive is straight, every putt drops, and he’s likely telling stories to everyone on the course.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Calfee Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, with visitation beginning at 2:00 PM and the service at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the New River Animal Shelter, 201 Maple Ave., Oak Hill, WV, in Craig’s honor.

In Craig’s own words:

“Angie, I’ll meet you at the creek. “