Deanna Maxine Ballard, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, niece, cousin, and friend, who was born on January 18, 1959,  to the late William T. Ballard and Dolores Walker, passed away on January 14, 2024 in Lagrange GA.  The early part of her life was spent in New Jersey. Attending 18th Avenue school,  Malcolm X. Shabazz and Clifford J. Scott. She went on to work in the Newark Board of Education school system as a Teacher Aide for Grove street Elementary and Harold Wilson schools for 14 years. Raising her two children in East Orange, N.J. Deanna eventually moved to Southeast Atlanta, GA where she worked as a cook for various Nursing Home facilities in Georgia , as she loved to cook.

Deanna was a spark of joy in any gathering. Known as a social butterfly with a lively, loving, honest, fearless, beautiful, and funny personality, she had a knack for making everyone around her feel special. Deanna loved all music, particularly house music, and enjoyed watching TV shows such as Little House on the Prairie, Price is Right, and All the Queen's Men. In her leisure time, Deanna enjoyed playing the card game 500, watching live music performances and college marching bands, cooking, and spending quality time with her family. Besides her kids her greatest love was her love of dancing! She loved to dance and never missed a moment. Her love for music  and dancing was infectious. Hope you had the chance to dance with her!

Deanna is survived by her Devoted son, Duane Ballard(Felicitia), and daughter, Latisha Ballard,  her granddaughters "Grams Angels", Ashanti McClain and Dionna Branch (Quincy),Great-Grands, Carter, Aria and Abigail.  Four siblings, Five nieces and nephews, and a Host of cousins, Friends and Extended Family from  Jersey to Atlanta.. She was predeceased by her mother, Dolores Walker, father, William Ballard, aunt, Maxine Bailey, aunt, Carol Gee, and spouse, William Jackson.

Known for her love of seafood and soul food, and for being an avid fan of  Football and Basketball as she went with the team she liked at the time, Deanna lived each day to its fullest. She enjoyed going on cruises to the Bahamas and trips to Wildwood Beach, taking her bus rides to Atlantic city, she also enjoyed hanging out in New York, and in  Atlanta she was often found at the Curb Market on Auburn Ave,  and The Bottom in Ellenwood. Deanna enjoyed life and people she met along her journey.

Deanna was passionate about  feeding people. Her sense of humor and strength made her an unforgettable presence. She believed in being true to oneself, standing firm on personal beliefs, and self-love. A teacher and a cook by profession, her dedication to her work was admired by all.

In her favorite color, red, and with a legacy of strength, resilience, and love, Deanna Ballard will be missed immensely. Her life lessons and vibrant personality will continue to be a source of inspiration for all who knew her. We remember Deanna for her lifelong  Love for her family and friends, and celebrate the incredibly strong woman we were fortunate to know.

While our hearts are heavy, we will celebrate Deanna's life and find comfort that she is now resting peacefully. Her enduring spirit and the memories created with her will forever be a part of our lives. She is FREE now!!

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