Budwell (“Bud”) Bruce Ballard, 89, of Port Charlotte, Florida, died peacefully at home on Friday, October 9, 2026, with his beloved wife and daughters beside him.

Bud was born on July 4, 1937, in Michigan. He enlisted in the Army in 1955 and served three years in the 10th Mountain Division. He married Carol Bayliss in 1960 and they raised four children.

He is survived by his wife of sixty six years, Carol Ballard; his daughters, Lin Benfield, Noelle Knight and Kelly Remick; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and son, Terry.

A private gathering will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery in November. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Continuum Hospice Foundation.

The family thanks the staff of Affinity Care of Charlotte and Home Helpers Homecare for their kindness.