Richard Henry Ballou

Minister Richard Henry Ballou was born in New York City on September 15, 1946, to Harvey and Henrietta Blackmon Ballou. He was the youngest of five siblings, all of whom preceded him in death.

After graduating from high school, he entered the military, where he faithfully served his country for twenty years. During his military career, he completed five tours in South Korea, a place he dearly loved. He also served as a Drill Sergeant for eight years before retiring from military service in 1985. Following his retirement, he furthered his education by graduating from Western Tech College in Electronics. He later worked as a Detention Officer for the County of El Paso for fifteen years.

Minister Ballou was called into the ministry at Unity Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Dr. Onnie I. Kirk Sr., where he served faithfully. Pastor Kirk later gave Minister Ballou his blessing to assist the new pastor at St. Peters Missionary Baptist Church, where he and his family served diligently until that assignment was complete. Afterwards, they continued their ministry journey at Northeast Bible Fellowship, serving faithfully for many years. Later, Pastor McKeithan Smith invited him to become a part of the ministry at Sweethome Baptist Church when the ministry resumed, and he remained a faithful servant there until the Lord called him home.

Minister Ballou loved fishing, spending time with his family, and cheering for his favorite teams, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the San Antonio Spurs. And he was a passionate music lover. He was a devoted grandfather who treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren. He met the love of his life one Wednesday night at Bible Study, where it was prophesied that he would marry her. Minister Ballou and Deborah Freeman were united in holy matrimony on September 26, 1992. Together, they were blessed with three sons and two daughters.

Minister Ballou leaves to cherish his precious memories: his beloved wife, Deborah (Freeman) Ballou; sons, Richard Henry Ballou Jr., Gianni Ballou, and James Ballou; daughters, Lakeisha Perez and Claudia Egbuna; and grandchildren, Jazzmean Lawrence, Janice Lawrence, Jacqueline Lawrence, Jameelah Perez, Emmitt Thomas, Messiah Nation Ballou, Khalani-Love Ballou, Victorious Ballou, and Armani Zarate