L. Dee Ball, 85, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, at Crystal Care Center.
For most of his life it was thought that his name was simply the initials L. D. leading to many confusions over the years not excluding when he entered the National Guard. His seniors had him sign the contract L.(only) D.(only). When he got his first paycheck it was made out to Lonly Donly Ball! Only recently his family discovered his birth name was L. Dee Ball, but for a man who lived a life with no first or middle name, he accomplished so much in life.
He was born April 28, 1940, in Clintwood, Virginia, the oldest of four sons of Sydney Ball and Mildred (Carlton) Ball. Moving to Richland Co. as a young boy, L. Dee worked his first job setting pins at the local bowling alley, a job he had to physically fight other boys to have the privilege to work. As a teen he was very athletic playing catcher on the baseball team, running track and was an avid swimmer.
L. Dee dedicated his life to hard work, service, and community. He proudly served for 33 years with the Ohio National Guard in Mansfield as part of the 112th Medical Brigade, retiring with the distinguished rank of Command Sergeant Major in 1990 having held that distinguished position for 14 years. Alongside his military service, he worked for 40 years as a machinist in the Tool and Die Department and upon retirement he proudly held the position of Safety Manager at Copperweld in Shelby, Ohio.
On April 8, 1960, he married the love of his life, Sandra Lynn (MacPherson) Ball, and together they raised four children. Sandra preceded him in death in 2024. L. Dee was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose steady presence, wisdom, and kindness shaped the lives of all who loved him.
A man of deep principle and compassion, L. Dee was an active member of All Souls Unitarian Church, where he served faithfully as President of the congregation. He gave countless hours to causes and organizations close to his heart: he served many years with the Shelby Democratic Party, volunteered as part of the Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Squad, and was a proud 50 year Mason with Shelby Masonic Lodge #350.
L. Dee’s hands were rarely still—he loved woodworking and carpentry projects, many of which are proudly displayed throughout his home. After retirement he operated his own blade-sharpening business, continuing to use his craftsmanship to help others. Friendly, generous, and easy to like, he was the type of person who made everyone feel welcome.
L. Dee is survived by his children Raymond Ball, daughter Lara Welty, and Sarah (Alandize) Winston; grandchildren Broderick Ball, Brent Ball, Hayley Carr, Sheyenne Drazick, Skylar Ball and Shane Ball, Sahvanna MacPherson, Tegan, Terrin and Alajaha; great grandchildren Karma, Justin, Oakley, Xander and Paighten; brother and sister-in-law Bob (Kelly) Ball and extended family.
Preceded in death by his beloved wife Sandra MacPherson, son Thomas Ball, grandson Justin Carr, and two brothers Tom and Jack Ball.
Friends may call Friday, December 5, 2025 from 11 am to 1 pm in the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home where a Masonic Memorial will begin at 1 pm. Active military honors will follow on the grounds of the funeral home before L. Dee is laid to rest in Kokosing Nature Preserve in Gambier, Ohio
Memorial donations may be made to All Souls Unitarian Church in Bellville.
To leave a message of support for the family please visit snyderfuneralhomes.com
Funeral Home: Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com