Daniel "Dan" Ball

Daniel “Dan” Ball, 90, of Kingsport, Tennessee, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 23rd, 2026.

Dan lived a full and remarkable life—one defined by service, friendship and deep devotion to his family. He remained active in the things he loved until the very end.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Freeman and Nannie Hale Ball; his first wife, Betty Mann Ball; his second wife, Diane Soltess Ball; his son, Jeff Ball; and his sisters, Mary Lynn Ball, Rose Marie Spriggs (Johnny), Martha Buckner, and Margaret Ball.

Dan is survived by his sons, Daniel Ball II (Diana), David Ball, Michael Ball (Amy), and Fred Ball (Sara); his grandchildren, Daniel Ball III, Chris Ball (Lisette), and Elizabeth Ball (Emily); and fifteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Gail Rich (Keith) and Barbara Forsyth.

Dan served his country in the U.S. Navy as a Naval Aviator for 24 years. His career took him around the world, flying with Strategic Air Command, piloting multiple aircraft, and serving during the Vietnam War. He took great pride in his military service.

After returning home to Kingsport, Dan stayed closely involved in the community. He was a familiar presence at Dobyns-Bennett football games, never missing a home game. He was active in the West Kingsport Optimist Club and the Kiwanis Club, where he valued both the opportunity to serve and the friendships he built.

In retirement, Dan remained deeply engaged. For more than 28 years, he worked at the Marriott Conference and Convention Center golf course as a Ranger and Starter. Later, he became involved in the Senior Olympics, where he competed and served as Board President, helping relocate the games to Franklin, Tennessee. He earned national medals in shuffleboard and cornhole and was inducted into the Tennessee Senior Olympics Hall of Fame in 2024.

Dan will be remembered for the life he lived, the example he set, and the family he was so proud of.

A private family service will be held at Mountain Home National Cemetery on Friday, May 1st, at 9:00 a.m., with Military Honors provided by The American Legion Posts 3/265.

A celebration of life will take place at the Marriott Conference and Convention Center on Saturday, May 2nd, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with light refreshments provided.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Bristol Humane Society Spray & Neuter Clinic, in memory of Dan Ball @ https://share.google/N2HfCYbbAy1BmmlAN