Lela Rae Ballard was born was born November 6, 1939 to John Taylor and Amanda Elizabeth Hardin Taylor of Carrizo Springs, Texas. Lela passed away at her home with family by her side, on January 22, 2024 in Castroville, Texas.

Lela was a wonderful wife to her husband for almost sixty-nine years, and mother to her children, nieces, and nephews. She loved the Lord Jesus and had many talents and graces while serving God in every aspect of her life through her family and the Church.

With a unique ear for music, Lela provided encouragement and worship leadership while playing the piano and singing in many churches. She loved to praise and worship her first love in Jesus and reading the scriptures in the Bible, as well as enjoying the presence and passion of the Holy Spirit in her life.  She was dedicated to the things of God with an extraordinary spirit.  Lela was faithful to pray constantly for her kids, grandkids, and many others. She loved cooking and studied recipes and cooking techniques, producing exquisite culinary delights. She also took delight in flowering plants of all types.

Lela is survived by her husband, James C. Ballard, Jr. of Castroville; sons, James Curtis Ballard and spouse Shelley of San Antonio, Terry Ray Ballard and spouse Bonita of Castroville, Micheal Kieth Ballard and spouse Sheryl of College Station, Angela Meyer and spouse Jeff of Georgetown, and Ginger Ballard of Richland Hills, Texas; sisters, Nancy Taylor and Johnnie Rust; twelve grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews, as well as other relatives and friends.

Lela was preceded in death by her parents, John and Amanda Taylor; brothers, Biddy, Edward, and Terry Udell and sisters, Ora May Smith and Novice Longenbaugh.

Lela's Memorial Service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024 at Calvary Community Church, 2097 County Road 4516, Castroville, Texas, 78009.