With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of Larry Ballou Sr., who left this world on July 26, 2025, in Joplin, Missouri of the age of 84. Born on February 4, 1941, to Charlie and Delores (Monroe) Ballou in Fort Scott, Kansas. Larry’s journey through life was nothing short of remarkable. He passed peacefully, surrounded by family and friends he loved so dearly.
Larry grew up in the heart of Kansas, where he attended Fort Scott Schools, laying the foundation for a life characterized by hard work and dedication. His first job was at Comstock’s Texico Filling Station, where even at a modest .25 an hour, he learned the value of earning one’s keep. Larry’s career later took him to the Mid America Welding Supply and, most notably, his 30-year tenure with the Painters Union District Council No.3 Local #9, where he left a lasting impact through his commitment and craftsmanship.
A man of many interests, Larry was most passionate about dirt track racing, a pursuit he enjoyed from the 1960s to the 1980s. His love for the sport was matched only by his enthusiasm for coon hunting and fishing—activities that not only reflected his adventurous spirit but also his appreciation for nature’s simple pleasures. Mornings for Larry were a sacred time to indulge in his favorite cookies and coffee, a ritual he cherished deeply.
Larry met the love of his life, Johnna Kay Davis at Lowe’s Skating Rink on National Ave. From their very first meeting, it was clear their love story would be one to remember. When Johnna’s mother would not allow her to ride in Larry’s car, he walked her all the way home to little street- an act that marked the beginning of a lifelong devotion. One year later, they were married on Easter Sunday, March 29th, 1959. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter and unwavering commitment, celebrating 66 beautiful years of marriage.
A devoted husband, father, unk, grandfather, and friend, Larry’s greatest pride and purpose was his family. He was the kind of man who showed up- cheering from the sideline, fixing what was broken or simply sitting and listening with a cup of coffee in hand. He lived with a quiet strength, a servant’s heart, and a sense of humor that left lasting impressions.
Larry’s greatest joy, however, was his family. He is survived by his brothers, Charley Ballou (Diana), and Paul Ballou (Cheryl); his children, Susan Davis (Rick), Pam Cowan (Billy), and Larry Ballou Jr. (Brenda). His legacy continues through his favorite grandchildren, Joshua Cowan (Chrystal), Stacey Atkins (Brandon), Ashley Valentine (Tyler), Jenni Simhiser, Dana Midkff (Corey) and Kelli (John), Smith and his 18 great-grandchildren, who will carry forward the stories and lessons he imparted. Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.
Those who knew Larry will fondly remember a man who was the epitome of loving, funny, and adventurous. He had a way of lighting up a room with his sense of humor and had a knack for making everyone feel special—especially his children, whom he loved dearly. Larry’s absence will be felt deeply by all who had the pleasure of knowing him, but his memory will live on, a testament to a life well-lived and a man deeply loved.
Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Delores Ballou, and his precious granddaughter Amanda Kay Cowan.
In honor of his life long love of Dirt Track Racing, guests are encouraged to wear their favorite racing shirt. Though our hearts ache, we find peace in knowing Larry’s race has been faithfully ran- and the checkered flag has now waved him home.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P .M. Thursday, July31st at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Fort Scott, Kansas. The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
If you are from Southeast Kansas, chances are you have visited Fort Scott National Historic Site and learned about the elite fighting force, known as the Dragoons. One of the essential tools in the Dragoon’s arsenal was the saber. Measuring 39 inches long and weighing nearly 2 pounds, Dragoons were trained to use them to fight on foot as well as on horseback.
