PRESS RELEASE – Blount County Sheriff James Lee Berrong is sad to announce that a retired Blount County deputy passed away Sunday following an illness.

Deputy Bill Ball, age 66, leaves behind his wife Linda, son John, daughter Leigh Ann, grandson Jaylen, and many other family members and friends.

Deputy Ball began his career at the Sheriff’s Office in 1996 as a Corrections deputy. He was promoted to corporal in 2004, and in 2006 he was selected to the attend the Knox County Regional Law Enforcement Academy where he graduated and received his P.O.S.T. (Peace Officer Standards and Training) certification. He was promoted again to sergeant in 2011, and in 2012, Deputy Ball transitioned to Court Services where he served as a court officer until his retirement in 2021. During his time as a Corrections deputy and supervisor, Deputy Ball also served as the commander of CERT (Corrections Emergency Response Team). Deputy Ball is also a Marine veteran.

“Deputy Ball had a servant’s heart,” Sheriff Berrong said. “Not only did he serve his community well, but he also served our nation as a Marine. He worked hard and he always had a great attitude. He will be missed.”

Services for Deputy Ball will be held at Smith Trinity Chapel on Friday, March 13 from 5 – 7 p.m. with a Celebration of Life to follow.

Please keep Deputy Ball’s family and friends in your prayers as they mourn the loss of a cherished family member and friend.

Rest in peace, Bill.