Mr. Moses Alfonso "Mo Jack" Ballard

UTICA – Mr. Moses Alfonso “Mo Jack” Ballard, age 61, transitioned to heaven on Saturday, December 2, 2023. Born on June 10, 1962 in Summerton, South Carolina to the late James Guilford and Jeannie B. (Ballard) Guilford, Moses came to Utica at a young age and was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. He very much enjoyed his time as Captain of the Utica Police Cadets, and Oneida County Deputy Sheriff of Corrections, before becoming a security guard for various local businesses, including St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Burger King, and Utica Free Academy. Most recently he worked as a part-time security officer at his alma mater T. R. Proctor High School. Moses was always a generous person, even when he did not have a lot. People enjoyed his company and his friendly nature. He led a clean life, never touching alcohol or drugs. In his early years, he could often be found roller skating at Mid-State Rink. In the 1980s he secured a gig as a DJ on WPNR at Utica College, and all are pretty sure it was at this job that he got his nickname “Mo Jack.” While he was there, he spun only the finest of records. A man of many hobbies and talents, Moses had a healthy addiction to electronics, enjoying communication with his ham and CB radios. He most recently found pleasure in fine tuning his firearms skills at the firing range where he became a very good shot. Moses was gifted in setting up aquariums, and people sought out his expertise and assistance in setting up and maintaining their own. He also knew his way around cars and could fix the brakes right in the driveway. Moses loved fishing with his sons, Aaron, and Cody. The three of them traveled all over the Central New York area looking for the best lakes to drop their lines, and making many wonderful memories. Having a deep faith in God, Moses attended Lifepoint Church. Moses is survived by his children, Tanya Maxwell McFarland, Julene Goebe and Travis Marshall, Angela Vilayvanh, Je’Nay Ballard, Moses Ballard, Jr., Julius C. Brown, III, Cody Owens, and Keymi Ballard; a host of grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He further leaves his memory to his siblings, Lorenzo Ballard, Melissa Williams, and Clifford Williams; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. Moses was kind and parental to many, which brought him an extended family filled with many people who referred to him as Dad and Grandpa. He also shared a special bond with his significant other, Theresa Matherson, and is also survived by his lifelong best friend, Pat Humiston. Moses held close in his heart the memory of his son who preceded him, Aaron Michael Christian Ballard; and treasured his grandchildren, Makiya Chanel Ballard, and Aaron Ballard, II, who became angels as infants. He was additionally predeceased by his brother, Michael A. Williams; and his nephew, Vance Ballard, who passed away in March of 2023. Visitation for family and friends will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Moses’ Home Going Service and Celebration of Life will commence at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Those unable to attend may be present virtually at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84972786281

Mr. Moses Alfonso "Mo Jack" Ballard

June 10, 1962 - December 2, 2023