Nancy Ferrara Ballard

Nancy Ferrara Ballard passed away peacefully on August 23, 2025, surrounded by love. Throughout her life, she held a strong and unwavering faith that guided her every step.

Nancy’s greatest joy was caring for others. She gave selflessly, always cooking, providing, and opening her home to family and friends. She will be remembered for her green thumb, her comforting home-cooked meals, her devotion to her grandchildren, and the steadfast support she gave her children.

A lifelong resident of Baton Rouge, LA, Nancy lived her 67 years with love and grace. She was the beloved wife of Ricky E. Ballard, her husband of 45 years. Together, they built a beautiful family and a life full of love.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Antoinette Ferrara, her sister Annette Ferrara, and her brother Danny Ferrara. She leaves behind her children, Jeremy Ballard (Leslie), Ryan Ballard, and Allison Meyers (Jeremy), who will carry forward her legacy of love and strength. She was the cherished grandmother of Lucy and Emme Ballard, and Arabella, Annette “Etta,” and Ellison Meyers. She is also survived by her loving siblings, Janis Ferrara and Russell Ferrara (Missy), as well as her sister-in-law, Darnelle Ferrara, wife of her late brother.

Pallbearers will be Samuel Losavio, Claney Duplechin, Thomas “Tinker” Ballard, James Jr. Ballard, Michael Legendre, and Christopher Ferrara. Honorary pallbearers are Nicholas Ferrara, Joshua Ferrara, and Danny Lawhun.

Nancy’s life was a testament to love, family, and faith. Though she will be deeply missed, the warmth of her spirit will live on in all who knew her. May her memory forever be a blessing and her love continue to guide those she leaves behind.

Visitation will be held at St. Jude Catholic Church, 9150 Highland Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70810, on Thursday, August 28, 2025 from 10:30 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 a.m. Interment will follow at St. George Catholic Church.

Nancy wished for her life to be celebrated, and she asked that attendees honor her vibrant spirit by wearing brightly colored attire.

In place of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society.