Douglas Lee Ball
On Wednesday evening, December 4th, 2024, surrounded by his loving family, our most cherished Doug Ball passed into eternity after a long and good life. He was 87 years of age.

The first of two children, Doug, as he was affectionately known, was born Douglas Lee Ball on August 4th, 1937, in Huntington. He was the son of James H. and Theris Ball. In addition to his parents, his only sibling, Linda Shirbish passed away many years ago in an automobile accident.

Doug spent his early years in Shady Spring. He would graduate from Gauley Bridge High School and further his studies becoming a proud graduate of West Virginia University. In 1965, Doug enlisted in the United States Air Force. He would spend 49 months in the field of Intelligence and playing basketball for the Air Force throughout Europe, an accomplishment of which he was most proud.

It's been an interesting life and one of adventure. Doug went into the insurance business and became very successful, establishing Doug Ball Insurance in Daniels focusing on coal mines and companies related to the mining industry. At the time, his largest account was Cline Resources. Although he was focused and hardworking, Doug never lost sight of enjoying life. He learned to fly and owned his own plane and of course there was golf. He had a great fondness for the Cobb course at Glade and several years ago won the Members Guest Tournament. A fan of all sports, he immensely enjoyed WVU sports and the Marshall University golf program. Doug was a charter member of the WVU Athletic Association.

Doug will be remembered as an overall good guy. He loved God and Country, he had a deep respect for the military and of course there was Wanda. They met in 1991, and have had a wonderful life. Wintering in Florida for many years, Naples and Jacksonville and the last twenty, with their many Beckley friends, in Citrus County. Her love and devotion throughout their marriage especially during the last ten years of his life as he suffered from severe vertigo, Parkinson's disease, diabetes and dementia was softened by her care. He often referred to her as 'His Angel,' and said, 'I would have been long gone if not for her steadfastness.'

In addition to Wanda, Doug is survived by his blended family, who will forever cherish his memory. They are his children, Beth Gardner (Ken), Whitney Billups (Louis), Cyndi Marino (CA), Erica Cole (Billy), Matthew Blankenship (Kim); grandchildren, Zachary Joyce (Katie), Emily Joyce, Claire Gerau, Jill Gerau, Ella Gerau, Trey Cole, Brooke Cole, Hannah Cole, Cole Blankenship (Taylor), Taylor Ann Blankenship, Alyson Blankenship, US Marine; great grandchildren, Oliver Douglas Joyce, Rainey Torres, Emerson Blankenship, Mikah Blankenship, Reece Blankenship; special niece, Kelli Mays; great nephew, Andrew Mays (Kayla); great great nephews, Charlie and Levi Mays; great niece, Aleksus Harvey (Travis); so many friends, and associates throughout his blessed life. At this time, we the family want to say, 'A very special thank you to Hospice of Southern West Virginia and the local Veterans Administration. The care, concern, and compassion will always be remembered with so much appreciation.'

'Unto everything there is a Season,' and now our dear Doug's season has come to a close. His long suffering is over and he is at peace at last and now on the other side with all those who have gone on before. Wanda recalls that Doug would always reach out to those in need and tried to be generous. So it's time to be generous to him and set him free. His last gift was to give his body for medical research. 'No funeral,' he said, 'Let's have a great get together.' And so we shall. This coming Sunday, December 15th, Doug's family invites all of you to a 'Time of Remembrance and Celebration' in the Cobb Room beside Bunkers in Glade Springs Resort. You are invited from the hours of 3 to 6 pm, bring yourself and a 'Doug Story.'

Melton Mortuary and Cremation Center is honored to serve the family through this difficult time. Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting https://www.meltonmortuary.com/