Lester Everett Ballew, Jr., age 91 of McKinney, Texas passed away May 24, 2015 in Allen, Texas. He was born March 23, 1924 in Allen, Texas to Lester Everett Ballew, Sr. and Ollie (Brooks) Ballew. Lester grew up in Allen, Texas where he attended Allen Schools. He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps., during World War II. Lester married Johnnie Bell Pope July 24, 1946 in Van Alstyne, Texas. He was a devoted husband for sixty-five years. Lester retired from the VA Hospital in 1977 where he was an X-Ray Technician for over thirty years. He was a Mason at the St. Johns Masonic Lodge number 51 for 60 years; he was also a member of Community North Baptist Church in McKinney, Texas where he served as a Deacon. After retirement Lester worked for two orthopedic surgeons in McKinney. Lester’s generosity and love for Christ was evident for all to see.
He is survived by his sister, Bettye Finigan of Fordyce, Arkansas; along with numerous nieces, great-nieces, nephews, and great-nephews, as well as a Host of other loving family and friends.
Lester was preceded in death by his wife, Johnnie Bell Ballew; parents, Lester and Ollie Ballew, Sr.; sisters, Hazel Long and Azza Lee Sullivan.
A funeral service will be held Wednesday, May 27, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Chapel in Allen, Texas. Interment will follow at Ridgeview Memorial Park in Allen, Texas. The family will receive friends during a visitation Tuesday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in Allen, Texas.
Memorial contributions may be made to Community Baptist Church Building Fund, 2500 Community Ave., McKinney, Texas 75071.