Gary Ball

Gary Floyd Ball, 77, a loving husband, one-of-a kind grandpa, avid Tar Heel fan, educator, and unforgettable man, passed away peacefully at his home Wednesday March 9, 2022 after a short illness.

A memorial service will be held Friday, March 11, 2022 at 3:00pm at Davidson Funeral Home Chapel, in Lexington, N.C. The family will receive friends following the service and other times at the home.

Born June 21, 1944 in Lexington, NC to Clara and Floyd Ball, Gary graduated from Lexington High School and earned degrees from Appalachian State University, Gardner Webb, and the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill.

Mr. Ball was employed by the Davidson County School system for 32 years. He was a teacher, coach, assistant principal, principal, and in retirement, taught drivers education. During his coaching years, Coach Ball won several Coach of the Year awards, conference championships, and the respect of athletes and coaches throughout the county. His proudest coaching moment was when he led the Central Davidson Lady Spartans basketball team to a State Championship in 1979.

Gary loved music, movies, books, sports, traveling, spending time friends and family. He was a member of Linwood Lions Club, a regular with the Golden Corral Friday dinner group, and a season ticket holder to Tar Heel basketball.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Connie Ball Hartley.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Diann Loftis Ball; step-daughter, Amy Loftis; grandchildren, Ryan Loftis (Chelsea); Brittney Pierce; Brandi Murphy (Chris); great granddaughter Raelyn Loftis; brother Terry Ball (Debbie); nieces Sherry and Kelly; nephews Ritchie, Chad, and Scottie; and other extended family, Alan, Josh, and Savannah.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of Davidson County, 202 Hospice Way, Lexington NC 27292.