Charles L.D. Ball

Charles L.D. Ball, 91, of Ozark, Alabama, passed away peacefully at his favorite place, home, surrounded by his family on August 30, 2026. He was born December 8, 1934, in Japton, Arkansas, to Hosea and Esta Ball.

Known as “Charlie” to his friends and “Paul” to his loving wife, Carole, Charlie grew up on an Arkansas farm. At just 16 years old, he left home and enlisted in the National Guard, later joining the United States Army and beginning a distinguished 22-year military career.

He served as a paratrooper and Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialist, with service during both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. His career took him around the world and earned him numerous decorations, including the Purple Heart with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Soldier’s Medal, and the Bronze Star Medal with Oak Leaf Clusters. Charlie also worked at the Pentagon and served on Secret Service details protecting Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, and Jimmy Carter.

While attending Explosive Ordnance Disposal training in Baltimore, Charlie met Carolyn “Carole” Louise Sellers. They married on April 20, 1962, beginning a lifelong partnership that remained the center of Charlie’s life. They welcomed their only daughter, Sonya Jean Ball, in 1963.

While still on active duty, Charlie attended Troy State University, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Following his military retirement, he served as an agent with the Alabama ABC Board and later taught psychology at Enterprise Community College.

Of all his roles, Charlie’s favorite was being “Papa” to his grandchildren, Alexandra “Alex” Victoria Sallas and Elijah “Eli” Charles Sallas. After a lifetime spent traveling the world, serving his country, and helping others, Charlie found his greatest happiness at home with Carole, Sonya, Alex, and Eli.

Charlie is survived by his wife, Carole; daughter, Sonya; grandchildren, Alex and Eli; siblings, Dwight Ball, Mary Ann Ball, and Thomas Wayne Ball Jr.; and many beloved nieces, nephews, family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hosea and Esta Ball; siblings, Virginia Ball and Medford Keith Ball; and nephews, Timmy Ball and Tommy Wayne Stevens.

Charlie left this world to be with God knowing his family was safe, loved, and taken care of. To him, there could have been no greater accomplishment.