Dispatcher: “All units, Sheriff Pat Ballard is not responding. This is the final call for retired Sheriff Pat Ballard. … He went to rest on July 10, 2024. … His dedication to the law enforcement community was truly unmatched. … His legacy lives on to inspire everyone what a true hero is. … Sheriff Ballard is now 10-7 ."
The final words spoken at retired Washington County Sheriff Patrick Jay Ballard's graveside service over a police radio was the law enforcement code "10-7" ― also known as "out of service," ― a symbolic farewell that marked the end of his watch.
Ballard, 77, died July 10 surrounded by family after a brief battle with cancer.
Ballard, among the most influential peace officers in Washington County, was known for his strength, leadership and dedication to law enforcement. His deep voice resonated authority, but also comforted those in need whether it be the public he protected or family and friends.
He served 43 years in law enforcement , beginning with the Bartlesville Police Department where he retired as a lieutenant in 1993. His retirement was brief, as he went to work as a Washington County Sheriff's Office deputy and was appointed Sheriff in 1994, a role he remained in until 2008.
“Pat was a great man, officer, friend, father, grandfather and an uncle to many,” said current Washington County Sheriff Scott Owen. “He will be greatly missed.”
Undersheriff Jon Copeland served under Ballard as a deputy who fostered his career advancement.
"Pat Ballard has a keen eye and was a great mentor," said Copeland. "I'm indebted to his guidance, leadership and the opportunities for growth he gave me and many others."
Retired District Judge Janice Dreiling swore Ballard in as sheriff after former sheriff Larry Silver died in 1993. Larry Silver’s son, Rick Silver, succeeded Ballard in 2008.
“Pat Ballard treated the public, including those who wore orange, with respect and dignity,” said Dreiling. “His annual food drive for families in need demonstrated he really cared about the people of the county where he grew up.”
Prior to the graveside service, approximately 400 people ― including several law enforcement agencies, city and county officials, friends and family ― filled the Community Hall at the Bartlesville Community Center for the service.
District 1 Washington C ounty Commissioner Mitch Antle , who worked as a deputy under Ballard read the poem “The Final Inspection."
“Pat was one of a kind, larger than life and an immense influence on my life,” said Antle. “The lines of family and subordinate co-worker were always blurred. He made every effort to walk people through life and make each one better.”
Former Bartlesville Police Department Chief Charlie Spencer spoke of the quick wit and humor that made Ballard approachable, marking him as a beloved and trusted figure in the community.
Following the service, Ballard’s body was escorted to the Dewey Cemetery by law enforcement agencies and the Regulators Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club. At one point, the procession stretched well over a mile, with cars halting and pedestrians watching in silence and others saluting in respect.
The casket was carried to a final resting place by family members, including three grandsons who are Bartlesville Police Department officers. Ballard's granddaughter is a Washington County Sheriff's Office deputy. His son, Bryan Ballard, is a former Bartlesville Police and Little Rock Police officer.
Bryan Ballard said he and his family are truly amazed at the response from the community: “It shows the kindness and professionalism of the law enforcement community and the people of Washington County."
Owen presented Bryan Ballard with the American flag draped over his father’s casket. Before the “final call” over the police radio, Pat Ballard was accorded a gun salute and the mournful playing of “Taps.”
Ballard was buried beside his wife, Beverly Virden Ballard, who died in 2019 after 39 years of marriage.
This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Washington County honors former sheriff Patrick Ballard
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