Chattooga County Board of Education member Sam Ballard is being remembered after passing away from complication due to cancer over the weekend.

Mr. Ballard represented the Menlo area on the Chattooga County Board of Education and was the first Republican to to hold the seat.

The Chattooga County Republican Part Executive Committee issued a statement from local party Chairman Eddy Willingham saying, “I was deeply saddened to hear the news of the passing of Chattooga BOE member Sam Ballard. Mr. Ballard was a stalwart member of this community as a Christian, Businessman and Public Servant. I remember him always having time for a kind word or helpful advice. He will be missed.  On behalf of the Chattooga County Republican Party Executive Committee, I extend our sincerest condolences and prayers for comfort to his family. ”

Chairman of the Chattooga Board of Education, Eddie Elsberry (D) said, “It was an honor to serve on the Board of Education with Mr. Ballard. He was a open-minded leader, fair, non-partisan and unbiased when it came to making decisions. He always put the students first in all decisions made. We have lost a great man, he will be missed.”