Leola Virginia Ballard, lovingly referred to as Mother Ballard, Leap, Pete, The Real Madea, and simply Mom, passed away peacefully at the age of 85. She was born on April 30, 1940, on the picturesque Lola Phillips Farm in the quaint town of Delmar, Maryland. Throughout her remarkable life, she touched the hearts of many with her warmth and generosity. Leola departed this world on the evening of November 21, 2025, surrounded by her beloved husband, LeRoy T. Ballard, enveloped in the comfort of their shared home, where countless memories were made. Her legacy of love and resilience will forever be cherished by all who knew her.

On April 30, 1940, Leola was born into a family marked by the legacy of her late parents, Leon Sylvester Truitt and Clara Rita Truitt. From an early age, Leola showed a remarkable curiosity and enthusiasm for learning, which was nurtured during her formative years at Nebo Elementary School. This foundational education instilled in her a love for knowledge and exploration. As she progressed through her educational journey, Leola attended Paul Lawrence Dunbar Middle School, where she further developed her academic skills and discovered her passion for various subjects, particularly in the arts and sciences. She demonstrated proficiency in singing and played musical instruments, including the clarinet, flute, and piano. Additionally, she served as a majorette and excelled in baseball, showcasing her diverse talents and skills in both the arts and athletics. Her dedication and hard work culminated in her graduation from William C. Jason High School, an institution that has since been rebranded as Delaware Technical School. Here, she not only excelled but also participated in various extracurricular activities that shaped her character and leadership abilities. Leola's educational experiences laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors, reflecting the values of perseverance and commitment instilled by her parents.

Leola's spiritual journey began in her childhood when she was a member and attended services at Mt. Nebo Church. As she transitioned into adulthood, she became a devoted member of St. Matthew's First Baptist Church in Laurel, Delaware. It was here that she and her beloved husband felt a divine calling from God to establish their own ministry, which led to the creation of Fellowship Tabernacle Church. At Fellowship Tabernacle, Leola embraced a multitude of roles, showcasing her deep commitment to faith and community. Not only did she serve with grace as the First Lady, but she also displayed her musical talent as the church's pianist, filling the sanctuary with uplifting melodies. Her passion for outreach and empowerment drove her to lead both the Women's Ministry and the Outreach Ministry, where she inspired countless individuals through her leadership and service. Her dedication and hard work did not go unnoticed; she was later ordained as the Associate Pastor, further cementing her influential presence within the church. Beyond her ministerial duties, Leola was known as a mother figure to many, offering unconditional love and support to those in need. Her warmth and compassion touched the lives of countless individuals, making her an irreplaceable cornerstone within her community.

Leola was well-known for her distinctive style, characterized by her fondness for fashionable attire, including an array of hats and jewelry. She possessed a keen eye for fashion and demonstrated a unique ability to curate her personal sense of style through her shopping endeavors. In addition to her fashion interests, Leola had a passion for floral arrangements; she was a reliable resource for anyone in need of a beautifully crafted bouquet. Most notably, she was recognized for her exceptional culinary skills. Leola frequently prepared meals and generously hosted guests in her home, ensuring that all who visited were well-fed and welcomed.

Leola's family members who predeceased her include her grandson, Jamar Gattis; her beloved sisters, Joan Irene (Jerome) Maxfield and Lucy (Nelson) Matthews; and her son, Leroy (Tommie) Ballard Jr. She is survived by her devoted husband of 53 years and her children: Trudine (Isaac) Gattis, James Jones, Tyrone Jones, Sharone Jones, Darrell Jones, Kimberly (Ronnell) Waples, Shawn (Veronica) Jones, Tammy (Larry) White, Warren Ballard, and Monica (Hurley) Smith. Additionally, she leaves behind bonus children Kent Howell, Patricia Holland, Nanette Mifflin, Reginald Robinson and Timothy Hall Sr. She is also cherished by a significant number of grandchildren, as well as great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Her surviving siblings include Eleanor Truitt, Silvia Truitt, Errand (Martha) Truitt, Virginia (Theobald) Jackson, and Clifton (Deborah) Truitt. Furthermore, her sisters-in-law, Bessie (William) Dickerson and Delores James, are among her surviving family members. Leola was especially fond of her Aunt Thelma, who affectionately referred to her as "Buttercup." Also, she is remembered by a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.