James Rodney Ballard, 70, passed away free from pain on Friday, July 25, 2025 in Edgewood, KY. A beloved husband, father, papa, brother, and friend, Rodney lived a life full of integrity, service, and deep devotion to the people he loved most.

Born in Covington, KY in February of 1955, Rodney was the eldest of three, known early on for his protective spirit and playful pranks. A proud graduate of Simon Kenton High School, class of 1973, he was voted “Most Popular” — a title that followed him throughout life, as everywhere he went, someone seemed to know him. His family often joked that they had to wait for him to finish chatting with half the town before they could leave anywhere. He later earned his degree in Criminal Justice while masterfully juggling work and a family.

From a young age, family was Rodney’s foundation. He grew up camping with loved ones at Lake Cumberland and later created lifelong memories with his own children on Hilton Head Island. He put his wife first in all things and surprised her often — whether with a tactfully planned 30th birthday party or a special toast to her at his own retirement speech. Together, they raised a family grounded in love, support, and shared adventure — including a Harley Davidson chapter with his “Howdy Boys” barber shop clan, and later, cruising with grandkids in his Camaro (which they were sure was a Lamborghini).

Rodney had a distinguished career in law enforcement and corrections, always dressed sharply, down to polished brass buttons, and carried himself with quiet dignity. He served his community beginning at the Taylor Mill Police Department and continuing through the Kenton County Police Department and Kentucky State Police. After his first retirement, he launched a second chapter of service as Chief Deputy at the Kenton County Detention Center, Deputy Commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Corrections, Director of the Fayette County Detention Center, and ultimately served as the Commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Corrections before retiring once again. In every role, he brought compassion, fairness, and a relentless commitment to improvement — even earning thanks from inmates for better food and living conditions.

He was a natural leader and mentor, respected by colleagues and treasured by the many young people whose lives he touched — from neighborhood kids who left his home with bags of candy, to the countless children and families he supported and guided throughout his work. He was always there when you called and somehow never missed a game, recital, or important moment for his children and grandchildren.

Rodney was known for his selflessness, gift of gab, and sense of humor. He loved UK basketball, working out, lounging by the pool while tanning and chatting, and above all, being “Papa.” He was truly one of a kind!

Rodney is survived by his beloved wife Beverly Ballard nee Napier, three children; Britni (Jonathan) Colwell, Zachary (Kati Elliott) Ballard, and Wesley (Tara) Ballard, and eight grandchildren; Aiden, Olivia, Maddox Colwell, Channing, Charlie, Chesney Elliott, and Aubriana and Luca Ballard. He is also survived by his sister Susan (Don) Stewart, special friends from table 1 at Panera, and a wide circle of extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; James and Patricia Ballard, and his brother; Phillip Ballard.

A celebration of Rodney’s life will be held on Sunday, August 3, 2025 from 10:00am to 2:00pm, with service to begin at 2:00pm at Chambers and Grubbs Funeral Home, 11382 Madison Pike, Independence, KY 41051. All who knew and loved Rodney are welcome to attend and share in honoring a life that meant so much to so many.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Kentucky State Police Foundation by clicking here or to Trooper Island by clicking here.