Orville Lee Ballard, of Riviera,Texas, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, at the age of 82. Born on August 31, 1943, in Lubbock to William Nathan and Beulah Myrtle Muncy Ballard, Orville carried with him throughout his life a deep love of learning, a servant’s heart, and an abiding appreciation for the outdoors.

He graduated from high school in Zapata before attending Texas A&I University, where he earned both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree. His passion for education never slowed. In 2002, he earned his Doctorate of Education from Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi/Kingsville. Even after decades in the profession, he said, “I’m not ready to go, I still have a lot to learn.” That belief defined him; education was not just his career, but his calling.

Orville was married to the love of his life, Mary Ann Cray Ballard, for 59 devoted years. Together they built a life rooted in family and service. Their partnership was a steady foundation through every chapter of his journey.

Orville began his professional career at Tuloso-Midway ISD, serving as a teacher, counselor, and later assistant and interim superintendent. In 1982, he became Superintendent of Schools for Riviera ISD, where he served for ten years and was recognized as Regional Superintendent of the Year. His leadership extended across South Texas as he served as a liaison for the State Commissioner of Education, an Adjunct Professor in the College of Education at Texas A&M University-Kingsville for more than 18 years, and later as Superintendent for Kenedy County-Wide CSD in Sarita, Texas. Dr. Ballard returned briefly to Riviera ISD as Superintendent Emeritus, a testament to the respect and trust he earned over a lifetime of service.

For Orville, education was about more than academics; it was about opportunity, character, and preparing young people to keep learning long after graduation. He advocated tirelessly for schools, literacy, and public education at the local and state level.

An avid outdoorsman, he was especially passionate about his time as a volunteer at the University of Texas Marine Science Center in Port Aransas. He facilitated the Film and Discussion series, led Wetlands tours as a docent and enthusiastically participated in outreach programs with students. He and Mary Ann created engaging hands-on learning experiences for young learners.

Orville also served nearly 20 years as Vice-Chair of the Rio Grande Water Master Advisory Committee fueled by his passion for water rights. Yet his happiest moments were simple; spending the day hunting or enjoying the beach with his family. It brought him immense joy to share his many talents with his grandchildren—from baiting a hook to genealogy to rebuilding firearms.

After retirement, Orville and Mary Ann traveled the world together, but no destination ever replaced his affection for South Texas.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Billie Marie Ballard. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ann; daughter, Alexandra (Justin) Feild; son, Nathan (Brenda) Ballard; and his treasured grandchildren, Paige, Brooke, and Logan Feild.

Orville Lee Ballard leaves behind a legacy of leadership, lifelong learning, and love—for education, for the outdoors, and most of all, for his family.

The family will receive condolences at 2:00 PM on Saturday, February 21, 2026; with a celebration of life to begin at 3:00 PM. Services will conclude that afternoon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to First Baptist Church Kingsville Food Pantry at 361-592-3344 or the Nature Conservancy of Texas https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/united-states/texas/