John Lee Ball

John Lee Ball, age 67, of Rincon, GA passed away Tuesday, February 1, 2022, at Savannah Memorial following a brief illness.

John was born June 4, 1954, in Cincinnati, Ohio to Marvin & Bernadine Ball, but was raised in Blanchester, OH where he graduated high school.

The day following graduation 1972, John entered the US Marine Corps beginning at Parris Island, SC.  He served his country proudly in Viet Nam where he earned two purple hearts from his injuries.  Following Viet Nam, he went to Japan, and travelled throughout the Orient.  As Sergeant, he attended many training courses and posts with the Marine Corps.

John entered the US Army in 1977 and became an Army Ranger where he spent the next several years traveling in both the US and in Germany.

Following his military career, John began working with heavy duty trucks (Peterbilt and KenWorth), in Parts and Service-retiring in 2020.  The last several years John began Martial Arts, starting with Kenpo Karate, later earning his green belt in Krav Maga and specializing in home self-defense.  Finding a way to satisfy his love for Martial Arts and his drive for business, he partnered with Tom Griffin, growing KravHIIT in Rincon to a thriving Martial Arts Academy, as well as developing their strong friendship.

Survivors include his wife, Gayle Atkinson Ball, originally from Broxton GA.  His six children: Jason Ball & wife, Tamara of Ariza along with their three children-Sean, Maizie, & Maggie; Jesseca & husband, Jason Turner of Wilmington OH along with their three children-Nyla, Devon, & Cole; John & Maria Ball of Wilmington, OH along with their two children-Beatrice & Georgia; Jamie Ball and partner Adam along with their two sons-Dalton & Brodi; Clay and Heather Collier and two sons, Walker Bennett and wife Cara, and Matthew Collier & his wife Kristen and their son, Landon of Douglas GA; and Pia and Tom Morris of Selah WA along with children-David, Jonathan, & Abigail Morris.

Other survivors include brothers: Rocky Ball of Buford GA; Ness Ball of Blanchester OH, Shawn Ball of Ohio, & Tim Ball of Gig Harbor WA.  Sisters include Cindy Ball of GA; Tracy Holliday & husband, Joe of TN; and MaryAnn & husband, John Griener of OH.

Three brothers-in-law: Steve Atkinson & wife Lola and David Atkinson & wife Angie-both of Broxton GA.  Jimmy Atkinson & wife Tracie of Port Saint Lucie, FL.  Also, a multitude of nieces and nephews.

John developed friendships throughout his diverse work experience and associations.  Having lived and worked throughout the United States and abroad in his military career.  He was well loved and will be forever remembered for his way with people, words, his wit and humor.  His Mid-Western heritage, his military training, and travels, mixed with his southern living made him a remarkable man!

Visitation will be held at Carlson & Riggs Funeral Home on Sunday, February 6, 2022, from 2-3pm with funeral services to follow at 3pm in the chapel of the funeral home.