OPELIKA- On Tuesday, the Opelika Council recognized Earl Ballard as the city’s Character Council Citizen of the Month for his tireless work and dedication to the community. Opelika Mayor Eddie Smith, along with Councilmembers George Allen and Leigh Whatley, honored Ballard while family and friends looked on with pride.
“Tonight, we recognize Earl Ballard, who has been married to Susan Thomas Ballard for 51 years. They are blessed with four children, their spouses, and 11 grandchildren.
Earl graduated in 1975 from Blade Central High School in Belgrade, Florida. He then obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Christian Education from Asbury College. In 1980, he graduated from Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky, with a Master of Divinity degree.
In January 1980, he began serving as one of the pastors at Trinity Methodist Church in Opelika and continues to serve in that role today. Earl Ballard exemplifies the true meaning of compassion through his consistent care, generosity, and willingness to serve others. He shows an unwavering commitment to helping those in our city and supports them through difficult times.
His passion for pastoral ministry and helping people discover and grow in their faith in Jesus Christ is evident in everything he does. Earl leads with kindness and empathy, and what makes him especially deserving of this recognition is that his actions are never motivated by the desire for acknowledgment. Instead, they stem from a sincere wish to love and care for others as Christ called us to do.
One who is close to Earl shared, “Just being in his presence calms me.” Earl’s compassion is contagious, and he truly makes Opelika a better place.
“Earl Ballard is truly deserving of the Character Council Citizen of the Month award. I, along with so many others, am thankful to call Earl Ballard my friend,” said Whatley.
On behalf of the Character Council, a council member added, “Earl, it is with great pleasure that we acknowledge you for your outstanding character and goodwill in the city of Opelika. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed. We hope that others will see your good works and model your actions. Please continue making a difference in the city of Opelika and throughout the world.”
Following these remarks, the chamber erupted in applause.
**OPELIKA** – On Tuesday, the Opelika Council recognized Earl Ballard as the city’s Character Council Citizen of the Month for his tireless work and dedication to the community. Opelika Mayor Eddie Smith, along with Councilmembers George Allen and Leigh Whatley, honored Ballard while family and friends looked on with pride.
“Tonight, we recognize Earl Ballard, who has been married to Susan Thomas Ballard for 51 years. They are blessed with four children, their spouses, and 11 grandchildren.
Earl graduated in 1975 from Blade Central High School in Belgrade, Florida. He then obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Christian Education from Asbury College. In 1980, he graduated from Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky, with a Master of Divinity degree.
In January 1980, he began serving as one of the pastors at Trinity Methodist Church in Opelika and continues to serve in that role today. Earl Ballard exemplifies the true meaning of compassion through his consistent care, generosity, and willingness to serve others. He shows an unwavering commitment to helping those in our city and supports them through difficult times.
His passion for pastoral ministry and helping people discover and grow in their faith in Jesus Christ is evident in everything he does. Earl leads with kindness and empathy, and what makes him especially deserving of this recognition is that his actions are never motivated by the desire for acknowledgment. Instead, they stem from a sincere wish to love and care for others as Christ called us to do.
One who is close to Earl shared, “Just being in his presence calms me.” Earl’s compassion is contagious, and he truly makes Opelika a better place.
“Earl Ballard is truly deserving of the Character Council Citizen of the Month award. I, along with so many others, am thankful to call Earl Ballard my friend,” said Whatley.
On behalf of the Character Council, a council member added, “Earl, it is with great pleasure that we acknowledge you for your outstanding character and goodwill in the city of Opelika. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed. We hope that others will see your good works and model your actions. Please continue making a difference in the city of Opelika and throughout the world.”
Following these remarks, the chamber erupted in applause.
