Denise Ann Ball, age 65, of New London died unexpectedly, on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at UH Samaritan Medical Center in Ashland, surrounded by family. Born February 23, 1960, she was the daughter of the late Lowell C. and Claudette (Harvey) Shepherd. On August 20, 1977 she married Steven N. Ball, and they built an incredible life together.

An eclectic and outgoing person, Denise loved riding around New London on her golf cart. Visiting family, hanging out at the parks, or just going for a ride, the golf cart brought her immense joy. She never met a stranger and was always working on something. She was creative and loved various craft projects, enjoyed fishing, and playing Fortnite. She was a collector of various dinnerware including Fire King and Pyrex, and an assortment of treasured vintage coffee mugs. She was passionate about music, especially older country music, but she was also known to change genres from time to time and would listen to just about anything.

While Denise had so many passions, the most important thing to her was always her family. Her world revolved around her children and grandchildren, which she helped raise. 'Mama Ball,' as she was lovingly referred to by family and those she treated like family, made sure that EVERYBODY knew they were welcome at her table. Family gatherings were her favorite times, and she put immense effort into ensuring that every detail was perfect. Holiday traditions were held sacred, especially Thanksgiving as the spirit of the day really enveloped who Denise was as a matriarch and compassionate caretaker who truly appreciated those she loved. When the family outgrew her home, she had her husband add on a side room so that there was plenty of space for everyone.

Survivors left to carry on her legacy include her husband, Steve Ball; children, Brian (Alison) Ball, Joey (Brooke) Ball, Matthew (Darrick Gates) Ball, and Jennifer (Mike Stevens) Ball; grandchildren, Brian Charles Ball II, Alivia Lunsford, Connor Ball, Addison Lunsford, Reagan Lunsford, Easton Ball, Bristol Ball, Brookelynn Stevens, Brayden Stevens, Michael Stevens IV, and Lorelei Stevens; and two great-grandchildren, Harper and Emelia Ball. She is also survived by her siblings, Jessica (Gheorghe) Gureu, Martin (Cindy) Shepherd, Rose (Chris) Kern, Elliot Shepherd, Desmond (Angela) Shepherd, Amber (Phillip) Daniels, and Charity (Eric) Case.

Denise was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Gary Shepherd.

Family and friends are invited to visitation at the Eastman Funeral Home, 200 W. Main St., New London, OH 44851 on Friday, August 1, 2025 from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. A private interment will take place at Fitchville Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

On-line condolences can be left for the family at www.eastmanfuneralhome.com.