Obituary of Reba Dorthea Sanderson Ballard
Reba S. Ballard
Dundee: Reba Dorthea Sanderson Ballard, age 95, died at her daughter's home in Cicero, NY on September 10, 2018, with other family members in attendance.
Reba was born in Milton, VT on July 8, 1923 to Raymond W. & Hallie B. {Mitchell} Sanderson; she graduated from Milton High School in 1939 at the age of 16. After serving as a Navy WAVE during World War II and then marrying John L. Ballard on June 20, 1947. She received her B.A. from the University of Vermont in 1950. She and John then moved to Dundee, NY, where they raised six children.
Reba was an Elder of the Dundee Presbyterian Church, a charter member of the Dundee Historical Society; a charter member of the National Museum of Woman in the Arts; and a founding board member of the Dundee Children's Center.
Many have shared she was a second mother to them. Her home was a warm and welcoming place where you were greeted with a delicious meal and good conversation. Reba was a dedicated letter writer to family and friends, maintaining connections of love and happenings through the written word. Reba was an avid piano player and filled her home with music.
She was a loving wife to John with whom she shared 64 years.
She is survived by her six children, nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Besides her husband, she was predeceased by a brother Ivan R. Sanderson of Milton, VT
A gracious and caring woman, she will be missed.
Honoring her wishes there will be no prior calling hours. A joint graveside service with Full Military Honors will be held in Milton VT at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Dundee Children's Center, 62 Main St. or to the Dundee Fire Company Emergency Squad, 12 Union St., Dundee, NY 14837
Arrangements are entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water Street, Dundee, NY; online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.
