It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Colette LaFond Ball. Colette was a woman of unwavering strength and unconditional love. She was a loving wife to James Ball, proud mother to Michele (Chris) and James (Robyn), and doting Memere to Sawyer (11), Penelope (5) and Noelle (7m). She was the daughter of the late France and Raymond LaFond and survived by her two brothers, Eddy and Harry. Colette was an aunt to many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.
Her greatest loves included adventuring and traveling with her husband, children and grandchildren. She loved to be active, she enjoyed skiing and hiking with her family along with countless other adventurous activities. She had a love for the ballet and theatre, our father made sure to treat her to countless performances.
St. Joseph’s School and Asbury Nursey School both became second homes to Colette (Mrs. Ball) and any and all children attending them past and present became her children. Her passion for her work, the people and children of those schools was nothing short of remarkable. We know her presence in those communities will be missed.
Colette, our mother and my father’s wife will forever hold a place in our hearts. We are so thankful for the life we shared with her and our lives will never be the same without her.
Calling Hours at the Fred H. McGrath & Son Funeral Home, Bronxville between the hours of 2 to 4 and 6 to 8pm, Monday. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at 9:15am at St. Joseph’s Church, Bronxville.
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Previous McGovern, Thomas A.
Next Scanlon, Daniel J
Catarina says
January 9, 2025 at 6:23 pmGood Bless Mrs.Ball! She was a wonderful person and always helped my son at school. I can’t believe she’s gone! My condolences to her family! 🙏
Joan spillane says
January 9, 2025 at 8:43 pmGod Speed to Colette☘️. She was a special and lovely person. Sympathy and Love to all- Joan Spillane and family
Pam Suder-Smith says
January 9, 2025 at 8:49 pmJimmy and family, I am so sorry to hear that Collette has passed. She was a wonderful person who cared so deeply for her family. My sincere Condolences to you, Pam Suder-Smith and Allan
Charlie Pashley says
January 9, 2025 at 9:33 pmI’m at a loss for words. Jim & Collette>>>The love of each other’s lives, the most precious couple I had the pleasure to know.. It’s been years and I hope you can call me I would love to hear your voice 7049626071. How may children did you have? When I last saw you you had an adorable daughter!! Wish I could join you but not possible. Jim you and Collette are family to me no matter how long we are apart. Behave. So deep ly sorry she is passed on. Love you all!!
Barbie Rodriguez says
January 9, 2025 at 9:36 pmPrayers for the Ball family. Sebastian and I are honored and blessed to have known Collette. We will forever remember and be grateful for the moments and conversations we’ve shared. Thank you for taking Sebastian and treating him like your own son! We miss you already.
Love to all- Barbie and Sebastian
Carol Lubniewski says
January 10, 2025 at 9:43 amJim, I was so sorry to hear of Collette’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with and your family at this very difficult time🙏🏻
Emily A Vuocolo says
January 10, 2025 at 11:08 amMrs Ball was an angel amongst us. She watched over our kids like her own. We all looked forward to seeing her every day at our school and will miss her dearly. Our prayers are with her family during his difficult time. Love, Rick, Emily, Oliver, Madelyn
The Samreth Family says
January 10, 2025 at 11:20 amSending the Ball family our deepest condolences. Mrs. Ball was our rock at SJS and there will never be another. She called all the kids her babies and protected them like her own. She will truly be missed!
Aubri (James) Veneruso says
January 10, 2025 at 11:59 amMy deepest condolences to the Ball Family. Mrs. Ball first new my family when she was a parent at SJS as my husband and his siblings attended the school with her children. She then got to meet the next generation, when our children enrolled during Covid. She cared for my children as her own, she looked out for them and served as an advocate for all the SJS kids. She dedicated herself to the school and was always there whenever myself, or anyone else needed it. I am eternally grateful for the blessing of knowing her and will miss her dearly.
Claudette says
January 10, 2025 at 12:31 pmIt’s incredibly hard to say goodbye to someone so special. Colette had such a positive impact on our kids and was truly one of the rare, genuine people. She was always there to offer guidance and support, with the kind of patience and kindness that felt like a blessing. Her heart was made of gold, and this news has shattered us. We will miss you deeply, Colette. With love, The Bacons.
Lisa Scanga says
January 10, 2025 at 12:37 pmOur deepest condolences to the family of Mrs. Ball. We were so incredibly lucky to have her in our lives at Asbury School and St. Joseph School. We will miss her so very deeply. May she rest in peace loved and remembered by all who knew her.
Helynn Boughner says
January 10, 2025 at 12:40 pmThe Boughner Family sends healing hugs and prayers of peace, comfort and strength to the entire Ball family during this extremely difficult time. Our hearts are broken over the news of Mrs. Ball’s sudden passing. She will be missed greatly. Her bright smile and warm spirit lit up every room she entered. The kindness and love she shared with all of SJS students will forever be remembered. “Rest peacefully, good and faithful servant” Matthew 25:21
Rosaleen DaRos says
January 10, 2025 at 1:01 pmIf there is one person who floated into the arms of Jesus in an instant, it is Colette. Jesus loves His little children and Colette cared so much for them. A most beautiful and caring soul.✝️
Jennifer Sanjurjo says
January 10, 2025 at 1:05 pmMy deepest condolences to the Ball family. We first met Mrs. Ball at Asbury Nursery School 10 years ago when my son, Andrew, had her as his teacher. My other son, Nicholas, was then fortunate enough to have her at the after care program at St. Joseph’s School. She always had the kindest things to say to me about my children. She was so kind and pleasant and deeply cared about all of the children. She will be greatly missed. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. May Mrs. Ball rest in peace.
The Wallace Family (Lamont, Danielle & Carli) says
January 10, 2025 at 1:12 pmOur deepest condolences to the Ball family. She absolutely earned her wings! A wonderful dedicated woman who cared and supported the families of St. Joseph. She holds a special place in our hearts. When reflecting on the time Carli attended SJS a few days ago, ironically one of those people of special mention of her educational journey until this first year in college was Mrs. Ball. She shared her fond memories of spending time in early morning drop off under her care. Mrs. Ball will be missed. We send the family loving prayers at this time.
Beth Lavoie says
January 10, 2025 at 1:28 pmMrs. Ball was our touchstone at St. Joseph. Seeing her there everyday gave me so much comfort. She was a protector of our children. I always felt secure when Luke was under her watchful eye. She really loved our children like her own. Mrs. Ball will be desperately missed. I hope we as parents can emulate her excellent parenting, caregiving and teaching style.
She was a woman of great character.
Claire Carley says
January 10, 2025 at 2:52 pmOh boy this is a tough one. Colette and I worked together for many years-we were the first ones in the school building every morning getting ready to welcome the students she loved so very much. God speed Coco and my sincere condolences to Michele, James and Jimmy.
Susan Daly says
January 10, 2025 at 4:37 pmColette was a true light unlike any other. She had so much love that she shared with all the children of St Joe’s. My children remember her fondly. She always made you feel warm and welcomed, I never had a single worry when Mrs Ball was around. What a woman to make an impression on so many children. Rest in peace, beautiful soul,
Margaret Clancy says
January 10, 2025 at 9:04 pmColette treated my kids as her own at St. Joe’s. She was kind, protective, and a little bit no-nonsense when necessary. I always felt they had another Mom looking after them at school. She was a gem and will be missed by many. Wishes for peace in the coming days to all of her family.
Carmelita De Guzman says
January 11, 2025 at 10:23 amTo Jim Ball and family,
Wishing you courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to hold in your heart forever. Our hearts sincerely goes out to you and your family. Please accept our deepest sympathy.
Manny and I remember our intimate dinner with you and Collete at John and Ginny Long’s home. It was a night to remember.
Today and always, may loving memories bring you strength and comfort.
Manny and Carmelita De Guzman
Dina Baron Amkraut says
January 11, 2025 at 10:28 amJim, my deepest condolences to you and family.
Ruth Miranda says
January 11, 2025 at 11:07 amJim I’m so sorry for your loss. May God give you courage as you face the days ahead. Please take care of yourself as you navigate through grief. Your loved one’s spirit will always be with you and your family.
Jimmy Justice says
January 11, 2025 at 12:16 pmMy heartfelt condolences to you Jim and your family. I was saddened when of learned of your dear wife’s passing. I know the tears, hugs and prayers on your behalf will be warmly received and will be a comfort to you all. Just know it is in God’s plan that departed loved ones will once again be in our embrace in a more glorious setting than we can imagine. Until then my friend, cherish the memories.
Jane Burke says
January 11, 2025 at 3:29 pmIt is hard to image entering SJS without seeing Colette’s smiling face in the office or the halls. Whether aiding administrators, solving a student’s problem, answering a parental question, assisting Toni or being supportive for each and every teacher, Colette was there for everyone. She handled her duties with patience, grace, love and a sly sense of humor. Colette was the hidden gem of the school and we are all better for having known and worked with her.
Kathy Bicknese says
January 11, 2025 at 3:57 pmCollette was an incredible woman. Being the first two people to arrive at St. Joe’s each morning gave us plenty of quiet talking time. I will miss that. Her devotion to her family was incredible , as was her dedication to SJS. She cared for each and every student as her own, and the students felt that.
Thanks for your friendship, Collette.
Jimmy, James, and Michelle, I can only say you were so very lucky! We knew her part time; you had her all the time and always will. May God rest her soul and bring you comfort.
Maria Peters says
January 11, 2025 at 8:51 pm.
First time I ever met (saw) Colette was at a parents conference for our girls (Michelle and Caroline) first communion at St Joseph’s. I remember thinking I have never seen such a beautiful pregnant woman! Little did I know that less than a year later we would move next door to her and our girls and boys (James and Andrew) would form such a strong and lasting friendship. I knew that day that she was beautiful but I learned her beauty was inside as well.
We shared so many happy memories together through these 26 years. She often referred to me as a sister and I felt the same way. No words can describe how much she meant to me and my family and how much we loved her and will miss her. Our hearts are with Jimmy, Michelle and James.
Debbie A Gentile says
January 12, 2025 at 6:15 pmColette and I have not seen each other in many years, but she was a good part of my son’s daily activities at St. Joe’s, and we spent many hours on the ball field with the boys in Bryn Mawr little league. Her kindness, and attention to all children is a gift that we will all remember with fondness. Her life was cut short to early and may her children, grandchildren and Jimmy know how special she was to so many.
Meredith Caprio says
January 12, 2025 at 8:26 pmMrs. Ball was one of a kind that treated every child as her own. Even though my son doesn’t go to SJS anymore she still asks about him and remembers him. We were lucky enough to have Colette at both Asbury and SJS. I have no doubt she will continue to watch and protect Gods children’s.
Love Meredith, Anthony , Ella, Nicholas, Serena and Christian Caprio
Gregory Gruber says
January 13, 2025 at 1:02 amColette was a dear and charming friend. I am deeply saddened by her passing. She will be missed terribly. My sincerest condolences to all her family and friends. Rest in peace Colette.
Love and prayers, Gregory Gruber
Rex Nichols says
January 13, 2025 at 8:03 amMy sincere condolences you Jim and the Ball family. May Colette’s soul Rest In Peace!.
John says
January 13, 2025 at 12:12 pmThank you God for Colette (aka) Mrs. Ball ) She was super nice with our kids and to the parents . That will never be forgotten or underappreciated. Thank you for your kind words and encouragement . The bible says absent from body and present with the Lord. As believers in Christ
Catherine Renner says
January 13, 2025 at 12:53 pmThere are no sentiments that adequately express how much Mrs. Ball will be missed. For almost 7 years, Mrs. Ball watched over our girls – two of her ‘frequent fliers’ in the aftercare program. A dependable friend, she afforded us, as parents, the comfort of knowing that our kids had a protector, an ally and a champion at SJS. Caitlin considers Mrs. Ball the first best friend she made at St. Joe’s. Her sense of humor combined with her no nonsense attitude made pick up something to look forward to after long commutes. Mrs. Ball was the embodiment of the spirit that makes SJS the special community that it is. Her loss is devastating but her legacy is enduring: she will live on in the community she fostered at SJS and in the hearts of my kids and all of the kids she considered her own.
To the Ball family: thank you for sharing her with us. We cherish the time we had with her and the countless ways she helped our family. We are forever grateful.
Love, Catherine, Bob, Caitlin and Teagan Renner
Evelyne Pauld says
January 13, 2025 at 3:11 pmJimmy I am stunned and saddened by the news of Colette’s passing. My sincere condolences to you and the whole family. Your love story was inspiring. May you be spared further sorrow. Much love. Evelyne
Sue Suttlehan & Family says
January 13, 2025 at 3:17 pmColette was such a gift to the St. Joseph’s community. She cared for the children, my three included, as if they were her own. I will be forever grateful for her quiet and loving presence. May she rest in the peace of God’s loving arms and may the memories be a comfort.
The Petracca Family says
January 13, 2025 at 5:31 pmOur family was blessed to know Mrs Ball the past 3.5 years that we’ve been at SJS. She was a one of a kind person, always patient, kind, and looking out for our children like her own. She took the time to chat with me even during the busiest school days. We are heartbroken to hear of her passing and will miss her immensely. May she rest easy knowing how many lives she touched. We will keep your family in our prayers and cherish all of the memories that we were blessed with.
Melillo Family says
January 14, 2025 at 8:35 amCollette was an amazing soul. I knew my children were in the best hands with her. She would send me little texts with updates on my kids’ well being when they were having tough times, and it always put my mind at ease. Even after we left St. Joe’s, she kept in touch asking about the kids. She was just a special kind of person and will be missed tremendously. My heartfelt condolences to her family.
With much love,
Jim, Dennise, Ryan and Aria Melillo
Oscar Ordonez says
January 14, 2025 at 1:44 pmJim, I’m so sorry for your loss. May your wife rest in peace. God Bless You and Your Family.
Paula Jansen says
January 14, 2025 at 4:18 pmDeepest condolences to you & your family, Jim. I’m so grateful that I got to meet Colette when she traveled with you. She was so full of sunshine & joy. You are all in my thoughts & prayers during this time of great loss. God bless you!
Michael Fishburn says
January 14, 2025 at 10:38 pmOur deepest condolences to Jim and family. I have many fond memories of Colette, meeting her with Jim at many industry events. She was full of joy and laughter and her eyes would light up when she spoke about her kids and grandchildren. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. God bless you! Mike and Angel
Francis Pirotte says
January 15, 2025 at 4:29 pmJim and Family, Our Deepest condolences, knowing Colette through stories, she seemed like a gentle and sensitive soul way too young to leave this world. She will be in our prayers; may she rest in peace.
Francis and Romy
Matrix de Vries says
January 17, 2025 at 10:41 amJim, I am so sorry for your loss. I can’t comprehend the pain of losing your life partner and friend. I hope you find strength in the company of your family and friends during this difficult time. Our deepest condolences. Matrix & Tijmen
Larrem Panganiban says
January 17, 2025 at 12:57 pmCondolences, Jim. May God bring comfort to you and your family.
Fred H McGrath & Son, Inc. is a third generation; family owned and operated Funeral Home. Located in the Village of Bronxville, the McGrath family has been serving the surrounding communities of Bronxville, Eastchester, Tuckahoe, Mt. Vernon, Yonkers and Scarsdale since 1918.
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