Mrs. Annell Louella Grant Ballew

.It is with deep love and gratitude that we celebrate the life of Annell Ballew, who passed away peacefully at her home in early morning hours Monday, July 14, 2025. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, and cherished friend. Annell was known for her boundless energy, generous spirit, and zest for life. Annell was born in Fayette County on September 16, 1931. She was the last surviving child of four siblings born to the late William Vernon Grant Sr. and Viola Elizabeth McPheeters Grant. Annell accepted Christ at an early age at Old Asbury Methodist Church which later became Wesley United Methodist Church. She loved serving as a Sunday School teacher, the Pastor Parish Committee, Missionary Circle, Christian Education and Culinary. In later years she loved sewing hats donating them to the children ministry during Christmas. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. She deeply loved her church family, finding strength and fellowship in their shared devotion. Annell received her education from Fayette County Public School System. She was a proud graduate of the Old Paul Laurence Dunbar High School in 1949. Her classmates called themselves the "49ers". After graduating from Dunbar, Annell attended Business School in Nashville, Tennessee. On April 16, 1960, she married James Thomas Ballew; to this union one daughter was born, Genell Elizabeth Ballew. Annell worked and retired from the University of Kentucky Hospital in Chemistry Lab as a Serum Processor. Active in her community, Annell touched countless lives with her kindness and warmth. She loved making hats for the homeless. It warmed her heart donating toys at Christmas at various organizations. She enjoyed crocheting baby blankets for the University of Kentucky NICU. She belonged to the Georgetown Elder Crafters and was an Honorary Member of the Renaissance Homemaker. As well she was one of the original members of the Dunbar Alumni Association. She was the life of the party, always ready with a smile, a story, or a helping hand. Her circle of friends and loved ones was wide and ever-growing, and her home was always open to all. A true homemaker at heart, Annell found joy in caring for her family and others. Her hands were rarely still—she loved crafting, baking, and serving, often spending countless hours making beautiful little girl dresses for children in Africa. Annell leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and joyful memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be dearly missed but fondly remembered for her laughter, her generosity, and the light she brought into every room. She is survived by her husband James Thomas Ballew with whom she shared 65 years of marriage. A loving daughter Genell Elizabeth Ballew, a bonus and devoted granddaughter Shyan Victoria Laine. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends whom she loved dearly. Annell was predeceased by four siblings: Alyce Elizabeth Grant, Katherine Louise Grant Turner (Sis), William Vernon Grant Jr. (Big Brother), James Wesley Grant (Dimp), and a niece Joyce Elizabeth Turner Green.

Mrs. Annell Louella Grant Ballew

September 16, 1931 - July 14, 2025

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Mrs. Annell Louella Grant Ballew

September 16, 1931 - July 14, 2025

Obituary Notification

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information