Richard Andrew Ballard, affectionately know as “Andy” was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on August 29, 2026. He was 39 years old. After 23 years of facing immense challenges of this earthly life, Andy was made whole and restored to perfect health. What was once limited by this world has now been forever healed in the presence of his Savior.
Andy was born on April 30, 1987, in Jackson, MS, to Kimie Copeland Crawford and the late Dr. Richard Ballard. Andy lived a life that reflected perseverance, unconditional love, and enduring faith. He shared a special bond with his identical twin brother, Ramsey, who was not only his twin, but his best friend.
As a child, Andy loved his family, was quite an artist and enjoyed writing stories, and loved his pet cats. As he grew older, he enjoyed soccer, baseball and basketball. At age 16, Andy’s life dramatically changed when he suffered a traumatic brain injury while playing basketball at Ruston High School. Though his path took an unexpected turn, Andy’s life continued to impact countless people through his quiet strength and the love he inspired in others.
Andy was an avid Dallas Mavericks and Star Wars fan. He found joy in the things he loved and brought joy to those who knew him.
Most importantly, Andy received Jesus Christ as his Savior during his teenage years, a decision that remained the foundation of his life. Just 6 weeks before his accident, he was baptized by his grandfather, Rev. M.F. Copeland, a moment that became an especially meaningful testimony of God’s faithfulness.
For the 23 years following his accident, Andy’s life became a testimony of perseverance, faith, and the unwavering love of family and friends. His mother, Kimie Crawford, faithfully cared for him at home for 23 years, and, alongside family members, friends, and caregivers who faithfully walked this journey with them, she created a life of dignity, compassion and care for Andy. The family would like to thank our precious Dewanna Russell for her years of love and care. Her love, loyalty, and sacrifice will never by forgotten.
For many years, those who loved Andy prayed for earthly healing. While God did not answer those prayers in the way many had hoped, He answered them perfectly. We rest in knowing that Andy has received complete healing and eternal wholeness. We rejoice in knowing that he is walking, running, speaking, seeing and worshipping His Father freely, forever free from pain and any limitation.
Andy was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Rev. M.F. and Delores Copeland; his paternal grandparents, Ingram and Catherine Ballard; his beloved twin brother, Ramsey Ballard; and his father, Dr. Richard Ballard.
He is lovingly survived by his mother, Kimie Crawford, and stepfather, J.D. Crawford; his uncle Kevin Copeland, his stepmother, Marcia Ballard; and a host of extended family members, friends, caregivers, and church family whose lives were forever touched by his presence.
Pallbearers will be Jurdon Thomas, McClain Thomas, Blake Thomas, Issac Thomas, Jeremy Albritton, and Lee McKinney.
A Service Celebrating Andy’s homegoing and the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ will be 11:00 A.M. Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Ruston, LA. Officiating the service will be Bro. Paul Watts and Bro. John Nugent. Interment will follow at Pisgah Cemetery in Bernice, LA under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Home of Ruston, LA.
A visitation for family and friends will begin at 10:00 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Emmanuel Baptist Church in Ruston, LA.
Memorial donations may be given to Emmanuel Baptist Church of Ruston, LA.
