Julia Ann Ballard, 66, of Carmi, passed away on Tuesday, March 12, 2024. She was born on October 2, 1957, in Oakridge Tennessee, the daughter of Frank Gray and Patricia Ann (Turner) Gray. Julia was adopted by her mother’s second husband Don Edman. She received her GED in 2000. Julia then went on to attend college. She married Larry Matz in 1994, and he preceded her in death in 1997. Julia later married Gary Ballard on June 24, 2006, and he survives. She was a member of St. Polycarp Catholic Church in Carmi. Julia worked as a parts inspector at Carmi Molded Rubber. She loved spending time with her family, and her grandchildren were the light of her life. In addition to her husband, Gary Ballard of Carmi, IL, Julia is survived by her children, Tessa (Greg) Thompson, Jon (Chandra) Ballard and Daniel (Niki) Ballard; grandchildren, Will, Alice Lily, Ava and Austin; one great-grandchild Aubree; siblings, Kenneth (Linda) Edman and Sheryl Gray- Weatherman; a niece, Danielle (Bradley) Farmer; a nephew, Gary Wayne (Michelle) Procise; and many great nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her first husband, Larry Matz and her parents. A private memorial service for Julia Ballard will be held at a later date. Campbell Funeral Home in Carmi is in charge of arrangements.