Mrs. Willie Lee Hodges Ball's Obituary
On July 22, 1939, Willie Lee "Goodna" Ball was born to the union of Willie and Clemmie Hodges in Meridian, MS. Goodna was the sixth of eight children born of this union. As Goodna began her journey through life, she found joy in her journey and left an unforgettable imprint on the hearts of all who knew her. On Wednesday, January 19, 2022 at her home on the southside of Meridian, MS surrounded by her loved ones, she completed her journey and trte her last gentle touch and reminiscing of stories and went home to her Heavenly Father. At a young age, Goodna was a pillar of her community, where she attended St. Joseph Catholic and Wechsler School. In 1955, Willie Lee Hodges married Joe Ball Jr.To this union, six children were born. She served as a supervisor at East MS State hospital, where she retired after 31 years of hard work and dedication. Goodna was i lady who was known for her devotion, craftsmanship, and motherly love. She was a devoted me:nber of St. Elizabeth United Methodist Church, where she served as a committee member, usher, and choir member. Goodna was an amazing cook, known for her famous sweet potato pie, wild onions, and fried chicken. Goodna loved and was adored by her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren and host of nieces and nephews. She was an avid sports fanatic, dancer, singer, and seamstress extraordinaire. Goodna loved her Dallas Cowboys and Alabama "Roll Tide" football teams. She was preceded in death by her Parents; Willie and Clemmie "Madea" Hodges; Sisters, Geraldine Ratcliff, Mildred "Bobbie" McGowan; Brothers, Willie Ed Hodges, Jessie Patton, Freeman Hodges, and Walter Hodges; and Great, grandchildren, Charquez "Chuck" Mercer and Niterra "Niyah" Ramsey. Goodna is survived by: her husband, Joe Ball Jr.; her children, Minister Lasondra Mercer (Elder Larry), Joe Ball lll (Ida) of Atlanta, GA Desmond Ball Oacqueline) of Clarksdale, MS, Vernita Ball, Yolanda Ball,McAlpine Oermaine), and Kelita Ball; Sister, Mamie Lee Amison; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.
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