Phillip Russell Ball died on August 2, 2026, at the age of 82, surrounded by his family. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 5 at 7 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Trumann with visitation at 6 p.m. Burial will be on Thursday, August 6 at 10 a.m. at Macey Cemetery in Monette. He was born on April 25, 1944, at the family farm just north of Monette, Arkansas, to Henry and Amanda Harrell Ball. Like many children of his generation, he contracted polio as a young boy and spent months at Arkansas Children's Hospital in Little Rock. The experience shaped him but never defined him. He was known for his quick wit, determination and work ethic. He graduated from Monette High School in 1962. After graduation, Phil returned to farming in Poinsett County, west of Harrisburg. On New Year’s Eve 1968, he met his future wife, Lenette. She liked to joke that she found him “arrogant” at first, but Phil was persistent, and they were married the following June at Calvary Baptist Church in Harrisburg. Their first son, Jason, was born the following year. In 1972, they moved to Trumann, where they joined First Baptist Church. Their second son, Matthew, completed the family in 1974. After years in farming and construction, Phil found his true calling when he opened Phil Ball Heating and Air Conditioning. He could fix just about anything, and he built his business on honesty, hard work, and treating customers right. Before long, he had probably worked in most homes in Trumann. When an air conditioner quit or an appliance broke down, the advice around town was often the same: “Call Phil Ball. He can fix it.” Outside of work, Phil was a longtime usher at First Baptist Church in Trumann, where he welcomed everyone on Sunday mornings with a smile, a handshake, and often a friendly joke. He was also a proud member of the Masonic Lodge for 60 years, where he treasured the fellowship and lifelong friendships of his fellow Masons. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Edward Ball; and his sister, Nancy Bowman. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Lenette Ball; his sons, Jason Ball and husband, Troy Jones, of Palm Springs, California, and Matt E. Ball of Jonesboro; his sister, Linda Stotts of Jonesboro; six nephews; and one niece. The family would like to thank the Trumann Fire Department and first responders for their compassion and professionalism. They are also deeply grateful to the doctors, nurses, and staff of NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital, whose skill, kindness, and compassionate care brought comfort to Phil and his family during his final days. Online guest book can be signed at www.thompsonfuneralhome.net.