Nancy Jo Ballew

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved Nancy Ballew, who passed away peacefully on July 7, 2023, after a valiant three and a half-year battle with aggressive inflammatory breast cancer. Nancy’s remarkable strength and unwavering courage throughout her brave journey was a testament to her indomitable spirit. Throughout the highs and lows, she remained a beacon of light in the lives of her family, friends, and all who knew her. Nancy’s infectious laughter, compassionate heart, and boundless love for others made her a cherished presence in every circle she touched. 

Nancy was an Air Force brat, born in France on September 12, 1959. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to England, and then back to the U.S. where they settled in White Settlement, Texas. Upon graduating from C.F. Brewer High School in 1978, Nancy went to work for the dental practice of Dr. Chappell Riise. That was the beginning of what would become a 45-year career working for various dental practices, in a variety of skilled positions. She eventually wound up back with Dr. Riise, and his successor, Dr. Brooks Stevens, until cancer treatments made it too difficult to continue working.

On October 25, 1997, she married Mark Ballew, a musician she had met through her brother, Butch McReynolds. The couple eventually settled in Saginaw, Texas. Nancy’s radiant smile and sparkling eyes were ever-present. She loved music and adored animals. Maggie, the family dog, stayed right by Nancy’s side throughout the entire illness. 

In addition to continuing to pursue recording projects, Mark has also been working as a long-haul trucker for 29 years, resulting in having to be away from home for much of the time. Mark extends his deepest gratitude to close family and friends, especially Laura Taylor, a former co-worker who retired from her job so that she could provide care and assistance for Nancy while Mark had to work away from home.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Harry J. and Patricia McReynolds, and three brothers, Butch, Tommy, and Rick.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Mark Ballew of Fort Worth, Texas; her sister, Susan Daberry and spouse, Howard; and three nieces, Kristina Daberry of Tucson, Arizona, Jessica McReynolds (Butch’s daughter) of New Braunfels, Texas, and Karen Wilson of Wichita Falls, Texas; sister-in-law, Pat McReynolds of Wichita Falls, Texas; and nephew, Jeff McReynolds of Dallas, Texas.

A celebration of Nancy’s life will be held at Shady Oaks Baptist Church located at 1336 Cavender Drive in Hurst, Texas, 76053 on August 5^th at 11:00 a.m. to honor the legacy she leaves behind.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Nancy’s name to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, or the cancer research and support organization of your choice.

As we bid farewell to our beloved Nancy, we find comfort in knowing that her pain has ceased, and she rests peacefully in a place where suffering is no more. May her memory continue to inspire us to love unconditionally, fight tirelessly, and cherish each precious moment of life. Rest in peace, dear Nancy, for you will live forever in our hearts.