Geraldine "Gerry" Ballew

Geraldine “Gerry” Ballew, 89, passed away peacefully in Bridgeport, Texas on Wednesday, October 18, 2023. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, October 23, 2023 at White’s Funeral Home Chapel in Springtown, Tx. Funeral Service: 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at First United Methodist Church in Springtown, Tx. Interment: Tuesday, October 24, 2023 in the Springtown Cemetery. “Gerry” was born Geraldine Thormaehlen in Ricardo, Texas to E. A. “Mutt” Thormaehlen and Thelma Thormaehlen nee Howe on December 6, 1933. When she was 17, she met a young man named Roy Ballew and they were married on October 21, 1951 in Andrews, Texas. She shared that people told them they were too young, but she was proud to say, by the grace of God, their marriage stayed strong and this week would mark their 72nd anniversary. Gerry was a stay-at-home mom for years, volunteering as a Camp Fire Girl leader, teaching Vacation Bible School, cleaning and doing anything that was needed around the First United Methodist Church in Springtown, where she was a member for over 50 years. She also helped with the band boosters and could sew anything! Once her children were older, she returned to the work force by working in the office of Dairyman’s Feed Store in Weatherford, Texas where she earned the nickname “Gabby” because she talked and laughed so much. She then went on to work at General Dynamics where she retired in 1990 after 13 years of service. In her spare time, Gerry enjoyed bowling, gardening, sewing, music and spending time with her family. Gerry is remembered fondly by all for her smile and her contagious laughter. She was a caring friend to all and even spent her last days encouraging others even while she was battling cancer. She was loved by all who met her and will be greatly missed. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Roy E. Ballew; her parents; and brothers-in-law Marion Ballew and Milton Bluhm. Survivors include her Son, Roy Michael Ballew of Springtown; Daughter, Judi Conger and husband Bob of Runaway Bay; Grandchildren, Dustin Smalley and wife Ashley of Bridgeport, Stacy Manning and husband Blake of Lubbock, Bobby Conger, Jr. and wife Kacie of Terrell and Crystal Conger of Weatherford; Brother, Buddy Thormaehlen and wife Bitsy of New Braunfels; sister, Carolyn Bluhm of Victoria; and a host of Great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews she loved dearly. Memorials: Flowers are appreciated, but donations may be made in lieu of flowers to First United Methodist Church in Springtown or your favorite church or charity.