CARROLL-BALLARD, Patricia M. “Patty” 72, of Southborough MA. Patty passed away at home on July 5, 2017 from complications due to cancer.
She was born in Worcester, MA on February 25, 1945, the daughter of William and Florence (Steele) Flood. After studying literature at Worcester State College and Clark University, she worked as a continuing education instructor, an editor, and a tutor.
She was the beloved wife of James Ballard, her partner for 40 years. In addition to her husband, her extended family, and her dear friends, she leaves son Todd Carroll, step-daughter Rachel Ballard and her husband Michael Davidson, and step-son Justin Ballard and his wife Kelly (Sullivan) Ballard. She also leaves three grandchildren she absolutely adored: Joey Davidson, 14; Piper Davidson, 13; and Harry Ballard, 5.
An avid gardener and reader, Patty also enjoyed music, art, travel (often to central Mexico), good food, and wine. She relished lively conversation. She loved nature and animals. She never met a dog that, after a short while, did not want to live with her.
She had a strong interest in medical and health developments and this served her well when illness befell her. In a final act of generosity, she made an “anatomical gift” of herself to Harvard Medical School for the benefit of medical research and education.
A private celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.
(Obituary and photo via Legacy.com and the Worcester Telegram & Gazette and Boston Globe)
