Ballantyne, Sara Ann

BALLANTYNE, SNETHEN, COLYER, WILCOXSON, BLACK

Posted By: Conni McDaniel Hall (email)
Date: 5/22/2017 at 12:38:02

Sara Ann Ballantyne, age 62, was born January 7, 1955, to Robert Marion "Bob" and Neva Juanita (Snethen) Ballantyne, in Leon, Iowa. She was loved and spoiled by her older sisters, Kathleen and Jean and brothers, Mary and Gary.

Sara had many health problems from birth. Even with limited ability, she made a large impact with her strong personality and sense of humor. She was baptized into the RLDS Church. She loved going to church and always seemed at peace there.

She lived at home for a few years attending public school, then spent several years in different care facilities. Probably the happiest time of her life was the several years she lived in hr own home in Lamoni, with the help of wonderful caregivers, she thrived. She was able to do her own shopping, cooking, and other activities. She enjoyed community activities and participated in Special Olympics, receiving numerous medals. During this time she was thrilled to live close to her Mom and siblings and they all enjoyed weekly gatherings. She loved Elvis Presley and her room was filled with every imaginable Elvis memorabilia. She even made a trip to Graceland in Memphis with hr friend, Frieda Phelps. She also loved music, Christmas, and Mountain Dew.

As her health began to fail, it was necessary for her to move into Westview Acres Care Center in Leon, where she again had wonderful caregivers. She had lost most of her hearing and eyesight, but still had that sense of humor with a tease and a smile for all her friends and family. Sara passed away there on May 12, 2017.

Preceding Sara in death were her parents; her sister Jean Colyer on March 22, of this year; brother-in-law, Bill Wilcoxson; and niece Shelly Black. She is survived by her sister, Kathleen Wilcoxson, brothers Gary Ballantyne and Mary Ballantyne and wife Deanna; brother-in-law Ed Colyer; caregiver and friend, Frieda Phelps, nieces and nephews, cousins, and one aunt and uncle; and numerous friends.

The family will always be indebted to those special people who dedicate their lives to helping the Sara's of the world.

Source: funeral folder
Sara was my 1st cousin 1x removed and my childhood playmate.

Decatur Obituaries maintained by Constance McDaniel Hall.
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