KILMARNOCK—Lorraine Virginia Ballard, daughter of the late Bradell Thompson and Virgie Thompson, was born on December 7, 1947, in Kilmarnock. Lorraine departed this life on February 13, 2026, at Franklin Square Medical Center in Rosedale, Md. She was 78.
Lorraine received her education at Mt. Jean Elementary School and later graduated from Brookvale High School in 1967.
Shortly thereafter, Lorraine moved to Baltimore, Md., where she gained employment with the federal government (SSA) for six years. She then went onto work for the State of Maryland, Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation division, for 33 years.
In 1971, Lorraine married Frederick V. Ballard, and from that union, their son Brian Ballard was born in August 1974.
In 1984, Lorraine became one of Jehovah’s witnesses and remained faithful in both Maryland and Virginia. In 2009, Lorraine retired and returned home to Kilmarnock.
Lorraine loved spending time with her family and friends. She would travel back and forth from Maryland to Virginia most weekends to spend time with both sides. Over the years, she maintained many relationships with her former co-workers. She loved going on trips to the beach and was so excited for a “girl’s trip” to Ocean City, Md., with them after she retired. She loved spending time with her dogs, Brownie and Whistle, as well as her grandpups, Lillie and Lana.
Lorraine touched the lives of so many with that beautiful smile and her thoughtfulness, but she will be most remembered for her infectious laugh. A laugh that was so distinct and could make anyone smile or laugh as well. She was the glue of her family and was the house everyone came to for visits. She was a great mother, daughter, sister and friend to all. She will be greatly missed.
Lorraine leaves to cherish her memories, a son, Brian Ballard (Amanda); sisters, Ruth Butler and Doris McCoy; brothers, Bradell (Toby) Thompson, Milton Thompson (Julia), Curtiss Thompson (Kathy), Pernell Thompson (Gwynn), Uncle Joe Carey (Liz); and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Bradell and Virgie Thompson; sister, Katherine (Billy); brothers, Fred (Barbara), John (Rose), Garfield Burton (Carolyn); and brothers- in-law, Robert Butler and Robert McCoy.
Services were at 2 p.m. Saturday, February 21, at The Kingdom Hall of the Jehovah’s Witnesses in Heathsville.
Barry O. Waddy Funeral Home of Lancaster handled the arrangements.
