Richard Ballenger Obituary Richard Brunson "Buzzy" Ballenger, 63, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2013, surrounded by his loved ones. "Take my hand precious Lord, lead me home", led him into his place of peace. Richard is survived by his three daughters, Emily, Bryn, and Amy Ballenger and sister, Janie Hicks. His brother, Chip Ballenger, proceeded him in death. The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the doctors and nursing team of the MICU at UMC and Odyssey Hospice. Their care and support were such a blessing and will never be forgotten. They will always mean so much to us. Born January 7, 1950, Richard was a longtime Lubbock resident, son of Mary Katheryn Brunson and Cooper Richard Ballenger. As a young man, he was involved in the Boy Scouts of America and was a graduate of Monterey High School and Texas Tech University. Later in life, music became an even bigger joy. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church choir and was a proud performer in local musical productions. All three of his girls share one of his special gifts. Amy shares his "gifted and talented" mind. They were always competing for who was the smartest. It's still a mystery. Emily shares his whistling talent. Driving to the Christmas Eve service, the family looked forward to their "Joy to the World" whistling duet. Although it was hard to top his vocal rendition of Elvis' "Blue Christmas." Bryn shares his independent, free spirit. The shock of seeing your Dad's face flying past the airplane window in his red, skydiving jumpsuit, and realizing this was your idea of a "bonding" experience? That memory will last a lifetime. Friends are invited to celebrate Richard's life in the Parlor at First United Methodist Church of Lubbock from 10 to 11:30am on Saturday, January 26. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Odyssey Hospice of Lubbock. The address is:1717A Norfolk Avenue 4th FloorLubbock, TX 79416