Terry Lee Ballew, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and longtime outdoorsman, passed away on October 22, 2026, at the age of 74. His death marks the loss of a family man whose life was shaped by faith, hard work, sports, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.
Born on January 6, 1952, in Birmingham, Alabama, Terry was the son of Billie and Athel Ballew. He spent much of his life building lasting relationships and creating memories with his family and friends. According to his obituary published by Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens, he was surrounded by a strong family legacy and leaves behind many people who will remember his kindness and encouragement.
Terry graduated from Huffman High School in 1970 and later attended Jefferson State Community College. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Alabama in 1983. He went on to build a 44 year career in the energy sector, spending most of his professional life with Southern Company. His work involved nuclear, fossil, and hydroelectric power plant projects.
Terry Ballew’s Family Life and Love of the Outdoors
Terry met his future wife, Michelle Ditizio, in 1984 while working at a nuclear power plant in Kansas. The couple married in 1986 and raised three daughters together in Hoover, Alabama, where they lived for 37 years. After retirement, they moved to Lay Lake in Sylacauga, where Terry enjoyed spending time near the water.
He had a passion for outdoor activities, particularly bass fishing, deer hunting, bird dogs, and camping. He also enjoyed watching Alabama football, Atlanta Braves baseball, and classic Western movies.
Sports remained an important part of his life. Terry played baseball, softball, golf, and semi professional basketball. He later shared his experience by coaching his daughters’ softball teams and supporting their athletic activities. Family members remembered him as someone who consistently encouraged others to improve and achieve their goals.
Survivors and Funeral Service Arrangements
Terry is survived by his wife of 40 years, Michelle Ditizio Ballew, and their three daughters, Elizabeth Ballew, Emily Ballew, and Amanda Duffey. He also leaves behind his grandson, Brayden Duffey, and his sister, Amy Moller.
His extended family includes several sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and numerous grandnieces and grandnephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Billie and Athel Ballew, and his sister, Pamela Bazzell.
Darryl Ballew will officiate the funeral service. Pallbearers and honorary pallbearers include Johann Moller, Zachary Moller, Chris Duffey, Tom Burke, Larry Myers, and David Crawley.
Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, October 29, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home, located at 1591 Gadsden Highway in Birmingham, Alabama. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m.
Terry was also involved with the Alabama Quail Hunters Club, Little River Hunting Club, Mt. Tabor Road Hunting Club, and Oak Mountain Presbyterian Church.
His legacy will continue through his family, friendships, and the many lives he influenced throughout his 74 years.
