Opal Nanney Ballew, age 76, of Lower Browns Creek, went Home to be with the Lord on Thursday, December 5th, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. A native of Crabtree, she was a daughter of the late Ed and Marie Nanney. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Roger Ballew, who passed away in 2018; a brother, Harold Nanney; a sister-in-law, Bonnie Nanney and a brother-in-law, Robert Conley.
Opal’s love for music began in childhood, nurtured by her musically gifted family. Whether humming a favorite tune or singing aloud, music was a constant joy throughout her life. She also had a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature, always tending lovingly to her flower garden. Opal was a true lover of antiques, with a keen eye for finding treasures that held history and memories. But above all, Opal cherished her family. Her heart belonged to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. They brought her endless joy, and her love for them was boundless. Opal’s family, her beloved dog Peaches, and the simple pleasures of life brought her immense happiness.
Left to cherish her memory is her children: Deitra Ray (Curtis) of Micaville and Rev. James Ballew (Melanie) of Rock Creek; grandchildren: Haley Horney (Ian), Bethany Ballew, Ethan Ballew, Kenny Ray (Amber), Courtney Ray, Emily Hopson (Levi) and Paradise Miller; great-grandchildren: Tayton Ray, Dawson Ray, Casen Ray, Easton Blackwell, Kinsey Lane Ledford, Kooper Ledford, and Everett Hopson; bonus great-grandchildren: Brayven, Bryndlee and Tylyn; siblings: Ray Nanney of Troy, Ralph Nanny (Nancy) of Icard; Farrell Nanney of Crabtree, Darrell Nanney of Bakersville, Carolyn Byrd (Brown) of Bakersville, Marolynn Nanney of Bakersville, Terrell Nanney (Cindy) of Lower Browns Creek, Dana Murphy (Little Boy) of Crabtree and Lola McKinney of Spruce Pine. Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and other extended family also survive.
Funeral Services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, December 13th in the Chapel of Yancey Funeral Services. Her son, Rev. James Ballew and Rev. Bobby Silver will officiate. The family will receive friends from 1 until 2 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home. Private burial will be in the John Ray Family Cemetery. To send online condolences, please visit our website at www.yanceyfuneralservice.com.
