Harley F. Ballard

Harley F. Ballard, Jr., 80, of Lake Road, Carlsbad, New Mexico, passed away Sunday, October 11, 2015 at Carlsbad Medical Center. Cremation will take place and there will be no visitation. A Memorial Service is scheduled for Thursday, October 15, 2015, 10:00 AM, at First Baptist Church with Pastor Randy Land officiating. A reception will follow the service at First Baptist Church, 112 North Alameda Street. Denton-Wood Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Harley F. Ballard, Jr. was born November 17, 1934 in Carlsbad, New Mexico to Harley Frank and Alice (Mayes) Ballard, Sr. He farmed and ranched all of his life and worked at the Southwest Potash Mines for many years and was referred to as "Cowboy". In 1973 Harley became a school bus contractor for the Carlsbad School District, after retiring he continued working his ranch north of Carlsbad. He was known to be available to help anyone in need. Harley was a life long Sheriff's Posse member and often competed in competitions in New Mexico and Texas. He was a longtime member of the New Mexico Mounted Patrol, a member of the BPOE Elks, # 1558 and various livestock associations. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Jerry Ballard, Thurman Ballard and sister, Mittie Smart. Survivors are two sons: Jim Ballard and wife, Suzanne, Winston Ballard and wife, Jan; daughters: Tammy Nyrkkanen, Jennifer Avallone; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sister, Kathleen Hood and husband, Gene; brother, John A. Ballard and wife, Mary Lou and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of donor's choice. Condolences may be expressed at dentonwood.com.