Obituary of Jacqueline Ann Ball

Jacqueline Ann Ball, a long-time resident of Mirror, Alberta, passed away on January 10, 2024, at Points West Living in Stettler, Alberta, at the age of 92.

Jackie was born on September 14, 1931 in Edmonton, Alberta. She was the eldest daughter of Duncan and Eva Mellick. She grew up in Tees, Alberta, with her siblings Ross, Jean, and Ted.

Jackie often spoke of family and how much she loved growing up in Tees. She completed her schooling at the Drake School. After high school, Jackie worked in the creamery in Alix, working in the Butter Room, and later in the office. She enjoyed the transfer as it was “Much warmer in the office”.

Jackie married Donald Ball in the Tees United Church on July 3, 1951. They travelled to Lacombe for pictures and settled in Mirror, where Don worked for the CN Railroad. She was a strong industrious wife and mother. She would have built the fires to heat their small homes and keep family life running smoothly, as Don was often away on the train. Don and Jackie had two sons: Tim (Tannis), born in 1954; and Jack (Brenda), born in 1957.

They had many wonderful friends and family in the community. Her door was aways open for coffee and some of her wonderful baking. Jackie always had a birthday celebration for each of her family. Her biggest enjoyment in life came from her family.

Jackie showed true grit the years that Don worked building the Great West Railway. She had to purchase a trailer and have it moved to Grimshaw. The salesman took advantage and sold her one that was not for winter. She followed behind the trailer with her two little boys, arriving in the dark. She was forever thankful to her neighbours who helped them settle in and for giving her a place to spend the night.

Four years later they returned to Mirror, where they settled and returned to family life. They lived in Mirror until Don required care. They then moved to Lacombe, with Don in Long-term Care, and Jackie in the Lacombe Lodge. She was his faithful partner – driving here and there, filling their days together.

Jackie was especially proud and happy to have grandsons, Clay, Scott, Luke, and Duncan. She was often found at their many school and sporting events. The boys all loved playing in their huge yard, enjoying all the snacks and treats. Another of her biggest loves was the arrival of “The Great Ones”, her 12 great grand children.

Jackie was a long-time legion member, and in honour of her Dad, she would place a wreath at Remembrance Day Celebrations every year, all the way up to 2023. She attended Mirror Alliance Church until her move to Lacombe. She loved her little Toyota and travelled to see her family as often as she could. Her heart was her home and family.

She will be lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

Jackie was predeceased by her husband Don; her mother and father, Eva and Duncan Mellick; and by her brother Ross Mellick, and her sisters Ruthie Mellick and Jean Hunter. A private service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of one’s choosing. Condolences to Jackie’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Ball” in the subject line.

Arrangements in care of

Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service

A locally owned cremation and funeral provider

serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta

587-876-4944