Joy E. Ball, age 68, of Shelby passed away at Crestwood Care Center on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, after an extended and courageous battle with cancer.
Joy was born on February 13, 1957, in Shelby to the late Anthony and Eyleen (Eckstine) McCarthy. She was a lifelong area resident. Joy attended Buckeye Central Schools before graduating from the Graphic Arts Program at Pioneer in 1975. She was employed at MTD in Shelby for over 35 years before retiring in 2020. Retirement was something she thoroughly looked forward to so she could spend more time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
Above all else, Joy was devoted to her family. Being a wife and mother wasn’t just a role she filled – it was who she was. She loved fiercely, protected endlessly, and showed up every single day for the people she cared for most. Her family was her pride, her purpose, and her greatest accomplishment.
She was a damn good mother – the kind who put everyone else first, who sacrificed without complaining, and who made sure her children always felt loved, safe, and supported. She taught by example: how to be strong, how to be kind, and how to stand by the people you love no matter what.
As a wife, Joy was loyal, supportive, and deeply committed. She was a true partner – through the good days and the hard ones – and her love was steady and unconditional. Her marriage was built on trust, humor, and a bond that never wavered.
Those who knew Joy will remember her compassion, her ability to hold a family together, and the way she made a house feel like home. Her presence was comforting, her love was constant, and her absence will be deeply felt.
Joy is survived by her beloved husband, Frank (Pete) Ball, whom she wed on March 11, 1975; three children; Frankie (Barbara) Ball of Shiloh, Ohio, Jason Ball of Shiloh, and Francine (Bruce) Petty of Tiro, Ohio; eight grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; a brother, Joel McCarthy and family of Marietta, California; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.
In addition to her parents, Joy was preceded in death by her beloved great-grandchild, Jonathan.
A celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pink Ladies of the Galion Owls at 239 Harding Way East Galion, OH 44833.
Condolences may be shared online at barkdullfuneralhome.com.
Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to assist the Ball Family with arrangements.
Funeral Home: Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory
Website: www.barkdullfuneralhome.com