Dr. James Benjamin Ball

Dr. James Ball, currently of Orlando, FL and formerly of Bellevue, OH, died on March 11, 2017 at the age of 87. Dr. Ball was born on April 27,1929 son of the late Ben and Alma Ball. He graduated from Bellevue High School in 1947, from the University of Toledo in 1951, and from St Louis University School of Medicine in 1954. After a year each of surgical and medical residencies at St Elizabeth's Hospital in Youngstown, OH, he served 2 years in the USAF in Lincoln, NE. He then returned to Bellevue and established a medical practice where he remained for more than 30 years. Dr. Jim moved to FL in 1990. He is survived by his wife, Lea, by a brother Dr. Ted Ball from Bellevue, sons Dr. James B Ball, Jr (Carol), Dr. Michael R Ball (Mary Ellen), daughters Dr. Valerie Ball, Dr. Victoria Ball, and Margo Macquarrie (John), Stepdaughters Jessica Hodges, Amy Baker (Anthony), Beth Roberts (Ty), and Julie Straka (Mark), as well as 21 grand children and step grandchildren, and 2 great grandchildren. Dr. Ball retired and moved to Jacksonville, FL in 1990. He enjoyed playing local golf courses, but soon missed the practice of medicine. He volunteered for the Duval County Health Department, and when leaving the Pine Forest Clinic, he received this farewell note from the staff:..."When the system for which we work couldn't help a client get needed medication, Dr. Ball helped. When the clinic needed atmosphere, Dr. Ball provided the music to 'soothe the savage beasts'. When the sewer backed up, he was the first to grab a mop. This is not a 'normal' doctor who has worked among us. This is a special person. This is a person who really cares. This man cares about all of those around him and asks for nothing in return. This is rare in men during these times. For this caring, we thank you, Dr. Ball." Beneath a tough exterior (Bull Headed Ball) beats a heart of pure gold. He will be remembered with love and affection by all of those whose lives he touched. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to the University of Notre Dame. Checks should be made payable to "University of Notre Dame" with "Dr James B. Ball" in the memo section. Donations should be sent to: Jamery S Barry Assistant Director Development Donor Services University of Notre Dame 1100 Grace Hall Notre Dame, IN 46556 *Alternatively, donations may be made online at: ( https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1210/support/support-form-hybrid.aspx?sid=1210&gid=1&pgid=27565&cid=53325 ) Please select "In Memory of / In Honor of Gift" and indicate "Dr. James B. Ball" in the section provided.

Dr. James Benjamin Ball

April 27, 1929 - March 11, 2017