Irene (Shoun) Ballard, age 91, of Elk Valley

Irene Shown Ballard was born August 24, 1928 in Briceville, TN, and
passed away on January 28, 2020 at her home in Elk Valley, TN. She was a
gentle lady and dedicated mother who had an immense love for her family,
unlimited beautiful smiles and enduring faith in God. She loved to laugh
at vintage television shows like “The Beverly Hillbillies” and “I Love
Lucy.” A shining example of a Christian in word and deed, she had kind
words for everyone. Her lifetime demeanor was humble, helpful and positive.
In good times and not so good times, her smile was like sunshine. We would
have loved to have kept her but God called her home to heaven where she
resides in peace, reunited with family, free of pain—and that is our
comfort.

Irene was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 45 years, Rev.
Paul Ballard; and, her parents, Alonzo and Emma Shown who raised her in a
lively, loving, family in Shown Hollow near an inlet of Norris Lake. The
departed also includes brothers, Clarence, Clayton, Avery and Frank Shown;
sisters, Leathy Shown Fraley, Idabelle Shown; and, grandson, Travis Strunk.

Listed are family members who survive her and mourn her absence on
earth while celebrating her precious life and presence in heaven—

Children and their spouses: Darlene and John Collins; Kenneth and Kathleen
Ballard; Johnny and Patty Ballard, all of Pioneer, TN; Dwain and Teresa
Ballard of Huntsville, TN; Roger and Debbie Ballard; Pauline Stewart, all
of Baxter, TN; 15 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; and one
great-great grandchild.

Siblings and their spouses: Odessa Emery of Stonington, Illinois; Billy and
Joann Shown; Ed Shown; Nola Shown, sister-in-law, all of Jacksboro, TN;
Geneva and William Bolinger of LaFollette, TN. Also, a very dear friend,
Betty Carithers of Elk Valley, TN. Additionally, a multitude of friends
and family celebrate the life of this wonderful lady who blessed them for
many decades with her sweet, uplifting presence.

Irene was a loving, faithful member of Little Elk Baptist Church where
son Kenneth serves as Assistant Pastor. She enjoyed life’s simple
pleasures like family gatherings; going to church; watching gardens and
children grow; welcoming new babies into the family fold; sitting in the
sunroom; and, watching TV from her recliner while John held her hand. We
have lost her earthly presence–but we have gained the living legacy she
has left behind with her loved ones. She has left a cherished mother’s
love, care and devotion; memories to celebrate like her sense of humor and
breathless laugh; a life lived well in Christ. Her life was, and is, a
treasure for her daughters and sons, and one to be celebrated. Mother’s
favorite expression was, “Goodbye and so long.” So goodbye, goodnight,
Mother Irene… thank you for all you have been to each of us… and so long,
sweet soul.

The family especially thanks Amedisys Home Care and Hospice for their
care, support and expertise.

Her family is grateful for the loving, excellent care provided by
daughters-in-law Patty and Teresa over the past three years for which
Darlene and John say a special “thank you.” Sincere appreciation goes to
all the neighbors, friends and family who assisted during Irene’s recent
illness with food, visits, kind words, companionship and the support of
prayers. Thank you all.

The family will receive friends for visitation on Friday evening,
January 31, 2020 beginning at 5:00 p.m. at the Cox & Son Funeral Home
Chapel. The funeral will immediately follow beginning at 8:00 p.m. at the
Cox & Son Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Larry Sexton and Rev. Kenneth
Ballard officiating.

Interment will follow on Saturday morning, February 1, 2020 at 11:30
a.m. in the Warren Memorial Gardens in Elk Valley, TN. Family and friends
who plan to go in procession to the cemetery should meet at Cox & Son
Funeral Home on Saturday morning, February 1, 2020 at 10:30 a.m.

Pallbearers will be Daniel Ballard, Johnathan Ballard, Dustin Duncan,
Andy Meadows, Cody Byrd, and Zachary Duncan. Honorary pallbearers will be
Jason Holston and Jim Carithers.

Cox & Son Funeral Home of Jellico is in charge of all arrangements.