Debra Ball

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Debra Ruth (McDaniel) Ball, age 64 of Columbus, passed away at 12:53 PM on January 20, 2020 at Mercy Hospital of Joplin following an extended illness.

Debra was born on March 1, 1955 in Columbus, KS to the union of Harold L. McDaniel and Dora A. (Wallace) McDaniel. She graduated from Columbus Unified High School with the Class of 1973. She had lived in Columbus for the majority of her life. She was very involved in the VFW Women’s Auxiliary and the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary, both of Columbus, where she could exhibit her devout patriotism and love of country. 

Within those organizations, she had held various leadership positions throughout the years. She enjoyed camping, crafting, visiting flea markets, and spending time with family.

She is survived by her longtime companion, John Nevin of Columbus; one sister, Barbara Beaty (husband, Fred) of Columbus; the following nieces and nephews, Fred Francis, Lisa Kloster, Tommy McDaniel, Kelsey McDaniel-Head, Dustin Beaty, Myranda Beaty, Alex Margrave, Amber Kloster, Zack Francis, Maggie Francis, Austin Waring, Lane Waring, Peyton Beaty, Savannah Beaty, Dawson Beaty, Henry Margrave, and Maxine Margrave; and two stepdaughters, Michelle Brooks and Robin Gooch.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Dora McDaniel; a husband, Donnie Ball; one brother, John McDaniel; and one sister, Mary Ann Powell.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, January 24, 2020 at the Pavilion at Park Cemetery of Columbus. Burial will follow at the Columbus City Cemetery. Keith Kloster will serve as officiant and eulogist. Pallbearers will be Ron Amyx, Zack Francis, Dustin Beaty, Keith Kloster, Fred Beaty, Fred Francis, and Mick Tedlock.

Visitation will take place prior to the service at Derfelt Funeral Home of Columbus, beginning on Friday at 12:00 PM, and ending with the procession to the graveside.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Columbus American Legion in care of the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.derfeltfuneralhomes.com.