Pastor Joe Ballard, 86, of East Peoria, passed away on Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

He was born in Versailles, IL to the late Louis Cosby and Hazel Eilene (Foiles) Ballard.  He married Sharon Rose Bevard in Pekin, IL on June 9, 1957.  She survives.

Also surviving are four children, Tammy (Larry) Shane, Lori (Don) Garde, Tanya (Todd) Gray, Gary (Rachel) Ballard; 19 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; and his brother, Dave (Bobbie) Ballard.

Pastor Joe worked at Caterpillar Inc. for 31 years before retiring.  While working at Caterpillar, Joe was also a Pastor at Peoria area churches, including the Church of the Nazarene in Wyoming, IL.This was his calling and he enjoyed it greatly.

Per his wishes, cremation has been accorded.  There will be no services at this time.  Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Summit Nazarene Church at 201 N. Summit Dr. in Washington, IL 61571.