Babs Ballard

Bernice A. “Babs” Ballard, 89, passed away on Monday, September 22, 2025, in Issaquah, Washington. A private graveside service will be held for family and close friends.

Babs, as she was nicknamed by her family, was born in 1936 in Kendrick, Idaho, the fifth of five children born to Robert O. and Minnie (Haines) Ballard. She loved being at their ranch in the Teanaway Valley and spent her life riding horses, pushing cattle, haying, hunting and exploring the area. She loved ranch work, especially alongside her dad “Pop”. She graduated from Cle Elum High in 1955, excelling at PE and band. Babs went to Eastern Washington University for a year and a half. She moved around a bit but ultimately settled back in her beloved upper county.

Babs was proud of driving school bus for the CERSD for 20 years and loved every “kid” who rode with her. Babs had an adventurous side too and spent many miles on her horses exploring and as a licensed Master Hunter, hunting our beautiful county. Driving long haul, she moved horses and other essentials across the country. Numerous people throughout the county knew for her ability to “witch” wells for water. Among other traits she inherited from her Grandfather Haines were the ability to paint and sketch. Babs was gracious and attentive to everyone she met.

Being named Pioneer Queen for 2025 was an extremely humbling honor for her. She loved and cherished the event - and her new Queen boots! We are thankful to all who celebrated and supported her memorable summer.

Babs is survived by her sister Minnie (Bunny) Frederick of Yreka, CA; daughter Joy (Manord) Rucker; sons Robert Deter and Jay (Jeanne) Ballard; grandchildren Derek Rucker, Kristin (Michael) Ballard, Courtney Deter, Meghan Johnson, Jessie (Blake) Reeves; great-grandchildren Paisley Ballard, Maverick and Maylee McCann, and Addie Reeves, as well as numerous nephews and nieces.

Babs was proceeded in death by her infant son, Audie; her parents; her sister Betty; bothers Chuck and Bobby; and her granddaughter, Brittany.

“Babs, with joy and pride, Where the horses run free, beneath the endless sky, In the land she loves, where dreams take flight, Babs shines a beacon of light”

Arrangements have been entrusted to Johnston & Williams of Cle Elum. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.johnston-williams.com