The Dayton, Ohio community is mourning the loss of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Lloyd Leo Ballard. On December 12, 2024, Lloyd passed away unexpectedly at the age of 66, leaving a significant void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His sudden departure has left his loved ones grieving, but also reflecting on the lasting impact he made in their lives.
Lloyd was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Thursa Ballard, but is survived by his devoted wife of 34 years, Fayrene Hinkle-Ballard. Together, they created a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Their bond was one of deep affection and mutual respect, and the loss of Lloyd is immeasurable for Fayrene. Their daughter, Gini Ballard Lowery, and her husband, Danny, along with their grandchildren, Kristan Lowery Redmond (Chandler), Brooks-Lynn Lowery Charlton (Joseph), and Bryant Lowery (Cassie), will forever hold on to the love and lessons he imparted during his time with them. Lloyd’s role as a grandfather brought him immense joy, but it was as a great-grandfather to Levi, Walker, Eleanor, and Tucker that he truly radiated happiness, proud of the next generation of his family.
Lloyd’s family extended beyond his immediate household. He is also survived by his father, Bobby Ballard, and his brother, Roy Ballard (Deborah). He was a cherished uncle to his nieces and nephew—Courtney (Tony), Caitlin (Mike), Alexis (Tommy), Jackson, and Natalie. Lloyd’s influence in their lives, as well as the relationships he built with his extended family, will not be forgotten. He was also adored by his nieces and nephews’ children: Tatum, Logan, Ethan, Asher, and George, who will remember their great-uncle with love and fondness.
Born and raised in Fairborn, Ohio, Lloyd’s journey through life was one marked by dedication, passion, and a strong sense of service to others. After graduating from Park Hills High School in 1975, Lloyd pursued higher education, earning his bachelor’s degree from Wright State University. His professional career was dedicated to the Miami Valley Conservancy District, where he worked for over 30 years. As a land surveyor, Lloyd played an instrumental role in protecting the community from flooding, conserving water resources, and promoting the enjoyment of the region’s waterways and bikeways. His work in the Miami Valley helped shape the infrastructure and landscape of southwest Ohio, leaving a lasting legacy that will benefit the community for generations to come.
Beyond his professional life, Lloyd was a man of many talents, and one of his greatest passions was the outdoors. An avid outdoorsman, Lloyd enjoyed camping, fishing, and hiking. These activities allowed him to connect with nature and find peace in the serenity of the world around him. But perhaps more than anything, it was music that truly defined Lloyd. A multi-instrumentalist with a love for creating and sharing music, Lloyd was the keyboardist for his band, Vintage Chrome. His musical talents brought people together and filled every room with energy. Whether he was playing in front of a crowd or enjoying a jam session with friends, Lloyd’s passion for music was infectious.
Music was more than just a hobby for Lloyd; it was a way of life. It was an avenue through which he expressed himself, connecting with others in a way that only music can. His ability to bring people together through the power of sound, rhythm, and melody made him a beloved figure in his community. Friends and family remember his musical performances with fondness, recalling how his infectious laughter and the joy he found in playing instruments added an extra spark to every gathering. Music was a language that spoke directly to his soul, and in that language, he communicated love, joy, and warmth to all who had the pleasure of hearing him play.
Despite all of his accomplishments and passions, what truly made Lloyd stand out was his character. Lloyd had a warm and inviting personality that drew people to him. His kindness, generosity, and infectious laughter made him a friend to everyone he met. His family and friends recall his ability to brighten any room he entered, his positive outlook on life, and his unwavering loyalty to those he loved. Lloyd was a family man, and his love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was evident in everything he did. He cherished the time spent with his loved ones, creating a lifetime of memories that will live on in their hearts.
Lloyd’s life was filled with love, laughter, and adventure, and his passing has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of all who knew him. His family, friends, and colleagues are deeply mourning the loss of a man whose presence made a difference in their lives. While his death is a tragic loss, the memories he created and the love he shared will live on forever in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. Lloyd’s legacy is one of service to others, of kindness, and of unwavering devotion to his family. His life is a reminder of the importance of living fully, of pursuing one’s passions, and of making a difference in the lives of others.
A viewing and service celebrating Lloyd’s life will be held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at Tobias Funeral Home, located at 648 Watervliet Avenue, Dayton, Ohio, 45420. This service will provide an opportunity for family, friends, and loved ones to come together to reflect on Lloyd’s life and to celebrate the impact he made on those around him. The community is invited to attend and honor the memory of a man who brought light, love, and joy to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Lloyd’s family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to local environmental conservation organizations, as a way of honoring his dedication to the preservation of nature and the environment. Lloyd’s passion for the outdoors was a defining part of his life, and supporting causes that align with his values is a fitting tribute to his memory.
Though Lloyd’s time with us was tragically cut short, his legacy of love, laughter, and music will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. The impact he had on his family, friends, and community will never be forgotten. Lloyd’s spirit will continue to guide us, and his memory will inspire us to live with the same passion, kindness, and joy that he brought to the world. Rest in peace, Lloyd. You were deeply loved, and you will be profoundly missed. Your legacy will continue to shine brightly, just as you did.
