Charles L.D. Ball

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Charles L. D. Ball, 91. of Ozark, Alabama, passed away at his beloved home on August 30, 2026.

Known as L.D. or D to his family, Charlie to his friends, and Paul to his wife, Carolyn, Charles lived an extraordinary life grounded in God, family, and country.

At barely 16, he misrepresented his age to join the National Guard, beginning a distinguished military career of approximately 22 years. A highly decorated United States Army veteran, paratrooper, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialist, he served during the Vietnam War and held assignments around the world, including the Pentagon and protective details involving United States presidents.

Following retirement, Charles continued his career in law enforcement and education, teaching Criminal Justice and Psychology. He was respected throughout the legal community— even by some who might have preferred not to cross his path. His remarkable knowledge was matched by his compassion, generosity, and willingness to help others.

Charles met Carolyn on a blind date while he was attending explosive ordnance training Indian Head, Maryland, and she was working for Bell Telephone in Washington, D.C. The Arkansas boy and Baltimore girl married only weeks later and celebrated 64 years together this past April. Their daughter, Sonya, soon followed, and together they built a life filled with love, adventure, and laughter.

Caring for his family was never simply Charles’s responsibility; it was his honor. He was immensely proud of his grandchildren, Alexandra and Elijah, and was always there to cheer them on. To Charles, every child was worth showing up for. He coached soccer, helped children who could not afford to participate, supported fundraisers, and even purchased a camper so more boys and girls could travel with the team. When a child had no family member present, there was always room at the Ball family table.

He loved his home, his pond, his land, and the animals that followed him faithfully as he worked outdoors. He loved road trips, camping, and time on the water. He was not a perfect man, nor did he expect perfection from others. He believed in trying your best, giving grace, and caring for one another.

Charles is survived by his wife, Carolyn; daughter, Sonya; grandchildren, Alexandra and Elijah; siblings, Dwight, Mary Ann, and Thomas; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hosea and Esta; siblings, Virginia and Medford; and nephews, Timmy and Tommy. He also shared a special bond with his great-grandson, Kai, who preceded him in death and remained forever a treasured part of his heart.