William Robert Judd Ballard

On August 16th, 2021, William Robert Judd Ballard, loving husband and father of four children,  passed peacefully in his home at the age of 91.

Bob was born January 7th, 1930 in Columbia, MO to Thelma Irene Hinshaw and William Glenn Judd. Growing up in Columbia, “Billy Bob”, quarterback & team captain of the football team, graduated from Hickman High School, where he met his first wife, Doris A. Thompson, later united in marriage in 1948.  They raised two daughters, Cheryl Lynn and Linda Lee and two sons, Robert Steven and William Scott.

Bob began his decades–long career in the insurance business, before meeting Mely Ong, which led to their marriage in 1994.  They joined together and continued to operate Mely’s Yogurt & Ice Cream in Prairie Village, KS, where Bob enjoyed greeting and meeting people until their retirement in Feb, 2020.

Bob was one of a kind and lived his life on his own terms.  He was a big character who gave the best hugs and loved his family fiercely.  He will be dearly missed.

Bob was preceded in death by his first wife, Doris, his mother Irene, his stepfather, Leon Ballard, his biological father, Glenn Judd, and great–grandchild, Chase Weiland.

He is survived by his wife, Mely, his 4 children, half-sister Betty Akers, niece Wendy Akers, 11 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held at 9:00am on Saturday, Oct 16th, 2021 at Cure of Ars Catholic Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood, KS. Mass of Christian burial will follow at 9:30AM,.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to:

Prairie Village Municipal Foundation/gingerbread
7700 Mission Road
Prairie Village, KS 66208