Wilmer H. Ballenger, Jr

Wilmer H. “Will” Ballenger Spartanburg – Wilmer H. Ballenger, 86, husband of Faye Groves Ballenger, passed away quietly at his home on Thursday August 14, 2014. Will was born on September 12, 1927 to the late Wilmer Herman and Thelma Barnett Ballenger, Sr. He served in the US Navy in the South Pacific from 1945 to 1948 on the USS Sumner, where he was a radar operator. When Will returned from service, he became a Railroad Engineer with CSX, where he retired after 38 years of service. He was a proud lifetime member of the VFW Post #9539, where he served two terms as Post Commander. Will was also privileged to take The Honor Flight with his fellow vets. In addition to his wife of 68 years, he is survived by two daughters, Susan Shields (Ken) of Greenwood, Ellen Thomas of Spartanburg; a son, Mike Ballenger of Spartanburg; a brother, Harold Ballenger (Georgianna); and former daughter in law, Roberta Ballenger of Spartanburg. Will was blessed with three grandchildren, Kelly Auerhammer (Mark) of Greenville, Karen Sidebottom (Jesse) of Kansas, Kathy Ballenger and her fiancé Eric Hope of Spartanburg; and two great grandchildren. He was predeceased by a daughter, Lisa Jo Ballenger. A memorial service will be held at a later date. The family is at the home.