Ballards Celebrate

65th Wedding Anniversary

 Mr and Mrs A.W. Ballard will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on September 23.

The couple met during high school in West Haven. They were married and have lived in Newtown for more than 35 years.

Allen Winthrop Ballard, known as “Win,” was the assistant superintendent and then superintendent of the Newtown School System from 1965 to 1982. He has also been an active member of the Newtown Lions Club, and he has served twice as its president. Mr Ballard received the Lions’ highest international honor, the Melvin Jones Award, as well as the Lions’ state title, Knight of the Blind. He was elected to the Newtown Legislative Council for four terms, and he is currently chairman of the town’s Economic Development Commission. He has also attained the highest degree in the Order of Masons.

Gertrude, called “Gert,” is an award-winning hand quilter. She designed and constructed the Newtown High School drum majorettes’ uniforms that were in use until the early 1990s. The white leather outfit replete with elaborate turquoise beading is depicted in the Edmond Town Hall mural by artist David Merrill.

The couple have five children: Jacqueline, Patricia, Gary, Mark, and Leslie, as well as eight grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. They plan a small dinner celebration with family members.