Donald Lee Ballenger, formerly of Pinebluff, died Wednesday, February 7th at Manor Care in Pinehurst.
He was born October 1, 1934 in Ware Shoals S.C. to LeRoy and Rachel Ballenger.
After serving two years in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean conflict, he returned home to attend Lander College. Soon after graduation Donald answered a call to the ministry and began classes at Erskine Theological Seminary. He received his Master’s in Divinity from Campbell University. He faithfully served six congregations in North and South Carolina over his 43 years as a pastor. He was on the Board of Directors for the N.C Baptist State Convention and the Campbell University Board of Ministers. Rev. Ballenger also served as a Chaplain at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital for 19 years.
He was an avid fan of old cars, old westerns, and Buck Owens songs.
He was predeceased by his wife, Evelyn Anne Kelley Ballenger; his grandson, Michael Kasey Haithcock and two great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his four children Don (Marsha)Ballenger of Independence, Va., Sarah Lynn Haithcock of Laurens, S.C., Rachel Anne Erbschloe of Aberdeen and Lee Ballenger of Greenwood, S.C.,
also, fourteen grandchildren and twenty-six great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind a grand dog and TTB.
The family would like to express their gratitude and thanks to the staff of Manor Care for all of the loving care and treatment that they gave during his stay there.
Services will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Red Cross, Sandhills Chapter, 807 Carol St., Fayetteville, NC 28303.
To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of Donald Lee Ballenger, please visit Boles’ Tribute Store.
Online condolences: BolesFuneralHome.com.
Mr. Ballenger’s family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers at Sandhills Sentinel.
