Dennis B. Ballard "Daddy", of Smyrna, passed on November 6, 2021, at Christiana Hospital, Newark. He was 56.

He was born in Exeter, NH on November 13, 1964 to Mary Wise and Bruce Ballard.

Dennis was a 1982 graduate of Smyrna High School, and a longtime firefighter and member of Citizens Hose Co., Smyrna, DE.

He enlisted in the Air Force, and served as a Military Security Police Officer at Pease Air Force Base in NH. He later served as a police officer for the Smyrna Police and Dover Police Departments, as well as serving as a DEA Undercover Agent. In his most recent years, he ventured into becoming owner of multiple construction-based companies.

In his many years of service in various endeavors, Dennis earned many, many awards. Dennis's greatest passion is being a fun-loving dad to his three daughters. His most proud accomplishment was becoming a private pilot, and owning and flying his own plane. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, a Board Member of Providence Creek Academy; and a longtime Republican.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by three daughters, Alexis Ballard; Katie Ballard; and Natalie Ballard; a brother, Scott Ballard; a nephew, Eric Ballard; a niece, Jill Ballard; his loving partner/best friend, LaDonna Maltbie; and man's best friend, Dexter Ballard (Dog).

A visitation will be held 6-7:30 PM Monday November 15 at Matthews-Bryson Funeral Home, 123 W. Commerce St., Smyrna, with services beginning at 7:30 PM. Burial will be privately held in Glenwood Cemetery, Smyrna.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Citizens Hose Company, PO Box 97, Smyrna, DE 19977.

To sign the online guestbook, please click the tab marked "View and Sign Guestbook".

Arrangements are by Matthews-Bryson Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Smyrna.