Janet Ball

Janet Ann Ball passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 4, 2025. She was born in Louisville, Kentucky, on September 5, 1947, to James and Barbara Ringo.

In 1968, Janet married Ron Alexander, and the couple moved to Germany for a year. Traveling through Europe was a highlight of her life, and she often shared her favorite memories of Paris and Italy. After returning to Louisville, they welcomed their first child, Christopher, in February 1972. They later moved to Chicago, Illinois, where their daughter Heather was born in August 1975. The family eventually moved west to Boise, Idaho; where Janet and Ron later divorced.

In August 1985, Janet married the love of her life, Kevin Ball, in Boise. Shortly after, they moved to Missoula, Montana, where they spent the next 40 years together. Janet embraced her new Montana home—hiking in the mountains, walking along the river, and traveling with Kevin to places like Banff, Belize, the Bahamas, Myrtle Beach, Hawaii, the Kentucky Derby, and countless other destinations shared with family.

Her beloved granddaughter, Karmen, was born in 2004, and being “Nana” was her greatest joy and blessing. They spent countless hours baking, watching movies, dancing, playing games (she always had to be Mrs. Scarlett in Clue!), and laughing endlessly.

Janet was always the light in the room, greeting everyone with a smile. She was happiest when surrounded by family and friends, sharing stories and a glass of wine. No one made her smile brighter than her precious granddaughter, Karmen.

For over 30 years, Janet worked at The Shack Restaurant in Missoula, first as a beloved waitress and later as manager. Customers often asked to sit in her section so they could enjoy her signature smile, southern hospitality, and genuine care. She considered her countless employees and coworkers as family and became a second mom to all of them.

Janet loved to love. She had a deep affection for animals and welcomed them into her home and heart. Over the years, she watched her daughter Heather bring home countless pets from the neighborhood—and somehow, every one of them became part of the family. Her life was filled with the joy of her dogs and “grand-dogs” alike.

Janet could light up a room with her wit, charm, and smile. She welcomed you with a warm embrace and had a way of making everyone feel like family. She was the first to lovingly put you in your place or make a joke that would turn the room to laughter. Watching her favorite sports teams would bring out the fire in her. She was often the loudest in the room instructing every athlete on how to play the game.

She enjoyed shopping (a lot) and took great joy in making her home beautiful and welcoming—a place where friends and family could gather and feel at ease. She was the most gracious host, always ensuring everyone felt loved. She cherished her morning coffee on the deck, surrounded by her flowers, and she truly was as beautiful inside as she was out.

Janet was “Mom” and “Nana” to many of Chris and Heather’s friends, who often spent time at her and Kevin’s home. Her circle of friends was wide, and she was adored by so many. She especially treasured her neighbors and watching the neighborhood kids grow up, start families of their own and have their children call her “Nana”.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents, James and Barbara Ringo; her brother, Jerry Ringo; and her sister, Pat Exton. She is survived by her husband, Kevin Ball; her son, Chris Alexander (Megan); her daughter, Heather; her granddaughter, Karmen (Riley Trogden); her brothers Dean Ringo (Lynn), Greg Ringo (Anita), Mark Ringo, and Scott Ringo (Kim); her sister-in-law, Sheila Ringo (Jerry); many beloved nieces and nephews; and her “favorite” daughter, Traci Nichols (Andy).

A celebration of Janet’s life will be held at Missoula Alliance Church on August 29, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. A reception at the church will follow, and an additional gathering will be held at her home—her favorite place—at 5:00 p.m. A celebration of life will also take place in Louisville, Kentucky, in the spring of 2026.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to an animal charity in Janet’s name.

Janet will be remembered for her radiant smile, generous heart, and the love she shared with everyone fortunate enough to know her.