Laurine "Winky" Ballard

Laurine Ballard, 81, of Bridgeport passed away on Thursday, March 7th surrounded by family.  She graduated from St. Lucy's Academy in 1956 and later earned a degree in computer programming at NCR Dayton, Ohio.  She worked for Nationwide Insurance Co. at MONY Plaza.  Winky was past treasurer and chaplain of the Bridgeport Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary.  In her free time she enjoyed shopping and her lunches with her sister, Suzie.  Winky nurtured the hearts of many through her love and her support of all her children.

She was predeceased by her loving husband of 56 years, Don Ballard where they opened up their home and hearts to over 50 children; her parents, Frank and Margaret Buehler; and a sister, Anita Lantry.

Laurine is survived by her children, Jeff, JoAnn, Lisa, Coleen, Iris, Toby, Mary and Rozy; 16 grandchildren, Dylan, Bret, Kristina, Samantha, Kaylah, Jacob, Caleb, Kyle, Alyssa, Caitlyn, Aleena, Avalee, Oakley, Talen, Alexander and Connor; 2 great grandchildren, Cameron and Tate; her sister, Suzanne; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be Tuesday 11AM at St. Francis of Assisi, Bridgeport, NY.  Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, Dewitt, NY. In keeping with her wishes there will be no calling hours.

Contributions in lieu of flowers may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or www.stjude.org

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