Mary “Lorrie” Ball
January 5, 2026
Mary Ruth Lorimer Ball, 79, of Charlotte, NC died peacefully on Monday, January 5, 2026 shortly after receiving a pancreatic cancer diagnosis in December. Lorrie was born September 6, 1946 in Evanston, IL, the daughter of the late Dr. Wishard Speer Lorimer and Margaret Katherine “Dede” Deutsch Lorimer. Following her father’s surgical training, the young family moved to Fort Worth, Texas where she was raised. A 1968 graduate of Texas Christian University, she earned a BS Degree in Elementary Education. In 1967, Lorrie met her future husband on a blind date through a long time friend. When Lorrie asked how she would know it was “David,” the good friend responded: “He has braces on his teeth.” After their marriage on August 20, 1973 she joined David in a teaching position at The Anglo American School in Stockholm, Sweden where they would live for two years. During that time they traveled throughout Europe, spending a great deal of time in Paris, as well as trips to Greece, Israel and Russia.
In 1981 they moved to Charlotte, NC where her husband continued his educational career, and Lorrie worked for a number of years before retiring from the coding department at the former Carolina Healthcare System. Any success her husband had in working with students was due in large part to her behind-the-scenes, unwavering support and encouragement. On at least two occasions she shared their home with students who were going through a difficult period.
Lorrie was a deeply loved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and cherished as well by a host of friends. She is survived by her husband, David; son, Edmund Sr. (Emily); daughter, Mary (David Jones) and three grandchildren: Edmund Ball Jr., Caty Van Ball, and Hank Ball. Lorrie leaves behind eight siblings: Bill Lorimer (Carolyn), Andy Lorimer, Doug Lorimer (Pat), Judy Lorimer Escher (Steve), Peggy Lorimer Booher (Jesse), Katy Lorimer Lomenick, Marynelle Lorimer Walley (Jim), Sam Lorimer (Mary), as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, January 17, 2026 at the Belk Chapel on the Queens University of Charlotte campus. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Levine & Dickson Hospice House at Southminster. Graveside services will be held at a later date in Fort Worth, TX.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to Well of Mercy, 181 Mercy Lane, Hamptonville, NC 27020, or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.
Comments
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I had the pleasure of knowing and working with Lorrie at Carolina Healthcare. She was a wonderful person. So much fun and very knowledgeable and a good friend. I’m shocked by this news. My thoughts and prayers go out to David, her children and her host of friends. The world lost a good soul! Rest in peace my friend. Karen
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David we are so sorry for your devastating loss. Mary sounds like a wonderful person, perfect for you, a truly amazing person as well. Thank you for all the years you spent loving and taking care of all us children. May your memories carry you through these hard times. Love, Lauren
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Sending so much love to you Mr. Ball. She was amazing
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Hi David,
Please know that I’m lifting up you and your entire family.
Peace and love.
Malcolm and Lauren -
Dear David,
Thinking of you during this difficult time.
My most sincere condolences and prayers to you and your family.
Mauricio, Paulina and Paty.
Big hug! -
It has been noted by many wise people that we are most blessed by God to have had one or possibly two true friendships during the course of a lifetime. One of my greatest gifts from God has been the honor to call Lorrie a true friend.
No words exist to describe Lorrie’s beautiful spirit and the shining light she was to all she met. She was authentically herself and accepted others “ just as they were” including all their imperfections. She encouraged those she loved to develop their God given gifts and become all God created them to be in this world.
Lorrie was a vital “behind the scenes” person not seeking the spotlight or attention. Yet she impacted others by creating a calm, supportive atmosphere for them to thrive while gently pointing them in beneficial directions for their future. I could write pages of examples of how Lorrie profoundly positively impacted me both personally and professionally.
Perhaps it is fitting that Lorrie was called home by God her creator during the Christmas Season. The favorite all time favorite Christmas Movie of many “It ‘s A Wonderful Life” emphasizes the value and blessings of family and friendship in our lives. Every day, every hour and every minute that I spent in Lorrie’s bright light of friendship has made my life a “ Wonderful Life”
My prayers will continue to be with Lorrie’s immediate and extended family and with all those who were blessed to call her their friend. -
I had the esteemed pleasure of working with Lorrie Ball at Carolinas Healthcare System. She was so funny and down to earth. I loved how David and Lorrie showed love for each other and how Lorrie loved on her children. Rest easy Lorrie in the arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Until we meet again. ??❤️
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So sorry to learn Lorrie is no longer with us. As a child when I played at the Lorimer home with Judy, Lorrie was always so friendly and sweet as she whisked through the house, busy with her own activities. I know your memories and shared stories will help during this time. Love, Ann
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To all who know and loved Lorrie, I well recall her and David's arrival in Charlotte and appreciate frequently crossing their Country Day path over many years.
The sudden end of her earthly time shocks and saddens. Sending heartfelt empathy. May her memory be for blessing.
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