Howard Jeff Ball

Howard Jeff Ball, 63, of McConnelsville Ohio, passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center. Born on June 12th, 1961, to the late Russell and Wanda (Rutter) Ball. Howard devoted his life to his family and the great outdoors. 

Howard spent over 25 working years as a water blaster for MPW and as a road-man for Bearfield Township. He will be remembered as an adventurous spirit, who cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, especially during family cookouts that often filled the air with laughter and delicious food. As an avid outdoorsman, he found joy in hunting and fishing, enjoying every chance to reconnect with nature, he also found great pleasure in locally hunting for ginseng. His passion for dirt track racing brought him even closer to his sons, as they shared countless thrilling experiences together. Howard was proud to serve as the treasurer of the Perry County Rod Benders, and he took great pride in his work hauling livestock, embodying the dedication and hard work of rural life. He is survived by his loving sons, Jeffery (Shannon Lafollettle) Ball and Bret (Tiffani Spergin) Ball; his cherished brothers, Russell Ball, Jr. and Glenn Ball of the home; his beloved grandchildren, Mya Ball, Bo Orsborne, Kendall Ball, and Luke Ball; his good friend, Bobby Goodrich and the mother of his children, Christy Newton. Each of these relationships enriched his life, and they will carry forward his legacy of love and adventure. 

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Wanda Ball; his brother, Randy Ball; his nephew, Cory Ball, his cousins, Jeffy Wickham and Shawn Rutter; his uncle Dean Rutter, as well as his aunts, Evelyn Rutter and Wilma Rutter.

A public viewing where friends and family are welcome to visit, will be held at Goebel Funeral Home, 36 N. Buckeye Street, Crooksville, Ohio, on Monday, January 20, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM with Kyle Eveland as celebrant. Howard will then be laid to rest in Zion Cemetery with his Ball family. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to assist the family with final expenses.