Patsy Ruth Ball

Patsy Ruth Ball, beloved wife, mother, and sports enthusiast, passed away on May 7, 2024, with her daughters by her side in her home. She was greeted at Heaven’s Gate by her precious Savior Jesus and her adoring husband Delbert, with whom she shared 54 years of cherished memories.

Born on October 18, 1934, to Paul and Edith Wheeler, Pat was the youngest of four siblings. She began each day with the comforting words of Proverbs 3, 5-6 guiding her. On September 29, 1956, Pat married Delbert in her parents' home, beginning a journey filled with love and the joy of raising two beautiful daughters.

Pat's professional journey included dedicated years at Time X, she later brought joy delivering flowers for two different shops and shared her kindness 22 years of volunteering for Meals on Wheels, which gave her tremendous fulfillment.

Sports were a passion that brought Pat immense joy and recognition. She was inducted into the Texas USSSA Softball Hall of Fame in Austin on March 14, 1998, and earned numerous MVP honors, a testament to her skill and dedication. Her husband Delbert played a pivotal role in her success, teaching her the art of pitching and guiding her team, Harris Acoustics, to greatness.

Bowling was another avenue where Pat shone brightly. Beginning in 1960, she embraced the sport wholeheartedly. Her accomplishments included induction into the Bowling Hall of Fame in 2006 and achieving Life Member status in 2011. Her team, Check Yes or No, set records in 1997-1998 and 2009 that still stand today, showcasing her enduring talent and passion for the game.

She is preceded by her husband, Delbert Ball; her parents, Paul and Edith Wheeler; her siblings, Ed Wheeler, Drucilla “Dru” Wendt, and Pauline Durbin.

She is survived by her kids, Regina Doerr and husband Mark, and Ginger Nelson and husband Gary; grandchildren, Brady Hilton and wife Stephanie, and Marissa Northup and husband Caleb; great grandchildren, Walker, Wesley, and Ace; and several nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Thursday, May 9, 2024, at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy 277 South. The funeral service will be 1:00 PM, Friday, May 10, 2024, in the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel. Burial to follow in Elmwood Memorial Park beside her loving husband Delbert. 

Pat's legacy is one of love, dedication, and a zest for life that touched everyone she met. She will missed by family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her.