Henry Ballard

 Henry Lee Ballard, known to many as Howlin Hank, the sixth child of Sadie Mae and Howard Ballard was born on March 17,1952 in East St. Louis, Illinois. He resided in West Frankfort, IL. 

Henry Lee attended Johnson Elementary and graduated from East St. Louis High School in 1971. He played football and wrestled. He later went on to SIU Edwardsville, where he pledged Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Chapter 1974, Zeta Pi Chapter. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communication. 

He had a lifelong love for music and became known as Howlin Hank. He played at various venues over the years. Whether it was spinning records or just talking about music he always found joy in sharing it with others. 

He was previously married and had four children. 

Henry worked for more than 25 years as a car salesman, where his outgoing personality helped him connect with people from all walks of life. 

He accepted Christ at an early age at Mt. Sinai M.B. Church in East St. Louis, IL. He later joined Lively Stone Apostolic Church in Mt. Vernon, IL in 2015. He later became a licensed Minister in 2018. His faith remained an important part of his life. 

On February 13,2025 Henry Lee passed away at Helia Health Care of Energy, IL at the age of 72. Joining his parents and five siblings, Willie Williams, Edward (Buddy Boy) Williams, Carol Ballard Jackson, Hattie Humphrey Jordan, and Carl Ballard. 

He is survived by his children David Ballard of Edwardsville, IL, Daniel Ballard Sr. of Tampa, Fl, Michael (Heather) Ballard of Marion, IL and Alicia Ballard of Edwardsville, IL. Seven grandchildren Daniel Jr. (Britni Schmidt) Ballard of Alton, IL, Keziah Ballard of Princeton, IN, Amiyah, Mahki, Easton and Hudson Ballard of Marion, IL, and Kegan Ballard of Tampa, FL. Three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by sister in-laws, Debra Ballard and Roger Lee Williams both of Indianapolis, IN; along with a host of nieces and nephews, friends, and one beloved Aunt Rose. 

Henry Lee lived life on his own terms, finding joy in music, good conversation, and the company of those around him. He holds a special place in his family's heart. Although he has passed on, his memory will live through the stories shared by family and friends. 

A celebration of Henry’s life will be held on March 1, 2025, at 2:00 PM, at Lively Stone Church located at 1700 Oakland Avenue, Mt. Vernon, IL. Please visit www.bluefuneralhome.com to leave condolences online.