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Rev. Thomas Austin Ball, age 83 of Deatsville, Alabama, entered into the presence of the Savior he so faithfully proclaimed for many years on May 19, 2026 at Baptist South Hospital in Montgomery, Alabama. Born in Montgomery on April 18, 1943, he was the beloved son of the late Alfred Eugene Ball and the late Ruby Eloise Heard Ball.
A devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, faithful pastor, and servant of God, Rev. Ball dedicated his life to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. On January 11, 1964, he married the love of his life, Christine, beginning a beautiful marriage that spanned more than six decades and was firmly rooted in faith, love, and devotion.
Following his marriage, Rev. Ball honorably served his country in the United States Air Force and was stationed at White Sands Air Force Base in Clovis, New Mexico. Even at a young age, however, the call of God upon his life was evident. At only 15 years old, he began evangelistic ministry, preaching revivals and sharing the message of salvation wherever the Lord opened a door.
Rev. Ball’s first pastorate was at Lomax Assembly of God in Clanton, Alabama. He would later faithfully shepherd congregations at Calvary Assembly of God in Prattville, First Assembly of God in Arab for 24 years, and New Hope Assembly of God in Clanton, where he served for more than 10 years before retiring from pastoral ministry. Between pastorates, he also ministered as chaplain at Limestone Correctional Facility, carrying hope and the love of Christ to those in need.
Throughout his many years of ministry, Rev. Ball touched countless lives through his compassionate spirit, heartfelt preaching, and unwavering faith in God. He was a true people person who never met a stranger and never missed an opportunity to testify of the goodness, grace, and mercy of the Lord. Whether in the pulpit, at a hospital bedside, or in everyday conversation, he faithfully pointed others to Christ.
Above all else, Rev. Ball dearly loved his family and treasured every moment spent with them. His legacy of faith, kindness, and steadfast devotion to God will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Christine Ball of Deatsville; daughter, Jill Ball of Houston, Texas; son, Thomas Ball of Albertville; grandchildren, Jordan Williams, Victoria Williams, Andrew Ball, and Hayley Bynum; great-grandchildren, Luca Williams, Graycnn Ball, Cowen Ball, and Samuel Bynum; sister, Vada Gentry of Prattville; and brother, Buddy Ball of Opp.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Ruby Ball; brothers, Bobby Ball and Billy Ball; and sister, Frances Alexander.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. from New Hope Assembly of God Church with Rev. Edward Wilson and Rev. Steve Gentry officiating.
Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church.
Burial will follow in the New Hope Assembly of God Cemetery in Clanton, Alabama.
“His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant…” Matthew 25:21 (KJV)
Final care and arrangements entrusted to Ellison Memorial Funeral Home of Clanton, Alabama.