Elvis "Joe" Ballew
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Elvis "Joe" Ballew (May 28, 1931-June 12, 2021
Dedicated teacher of the PSJA ISD serving the district for 38 years has joined his maker in heaven on another assignment. He spent his entire career teaching in the PSJA District. He has been named teacher of the year 5 times and even had a high school named after him and in his honor. He has served on many boards and committees at PSJA. He has taught 3 generations of students during his tenure. Born in Dallas, TX, he was raised by his adoptive parents Steve and Lucy Ballew of San Saba, TX where at attended school through high school. He attended Sol Ross University, depleted his college funds, drafted in the US Army where he received an honorable discharge, returned to Sol Ross and the University of Texas at Austin where he received his Bachelor's Degree. Returning to Sol Ross he completed his Master's Degree. Then to PSJA until retirement. During his teaching career he met the love of his life Joyce Marie Marlow, a special eds teacher, and they were married for 38 years when she predeceased him in 2013. He had 2 step children, Cheri Stripling (predeceased him), and Michael Marlow. 2 step grandchildren: Donald J. Marlow and Kelly Marlow. A step granddaughter Michelle Martin, her husband Clayton and son Knox Martin. A sister-in-law, Lila M Bailey, husband Mel, their son Clifton and daughter Laura Nowak and 2 grandchildren. Most important, a brother-in-law who was his devoted care giver and friend, Glen E. Johnson. Joe was very dedicated to his church the 1st Baptist Church of Pharr, Pharr, TX where he was a Sunday School Teacher, a Choir Member, and served on many boards and committees.
A Memorial Service will be held at the 1st Baptist Church of Pharr, at 400 W Ridge Rd. Pharr, TX on June 21, 2021 at 4:00 PM.
Joe requested any donations be made to the 1st Baptist Church of Pharr in lieu of flowers. Cremation arrangements are under the care of Aurora Funeral Home Sam Houston of Pharr.