Bruce Garrison Ballenger, Jr.

Bruce Garrison “Garry” Ballenger, Jr.
May 1, 1955 - June 21, 2025

Bruce Garrison Ballenger, Jr., affectionately known to most as Garry and lovingly called Gergie by his mother, passed away on June 21, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina, at the age of 70.

Garry was born on May 1, 1955 in New York City, and grew up in Charlotte. He attended Charlotte Country Day School, Episcopal High School in Alexandria, VA and East Mecklenburg High School in Charlotte, NC where he made many life long friends. 

Garry earned his undergraduate degree from Boston University before returning to North Carolina to study law at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He enjoyed a successful career in real estate law, known by colleagues and clients alike for his intelligence, integrity, and wit.

In addition to his legal career, Garry was a youth soccer coach for his children’s teams at the Harris YMCA. After retiring, he deepened his connection to the Y by working early morning shifts, opening the doors at 5:00 AM with dependability.

Garry and Kathryn shared the last 20 years of partnership & purpose. Together, they were active in scouts-Garry was Cubmaster for Boy Scout Troop 116 and an archery facilitator for Girl Scout Troop 1169-and went on many camping trips. They also traveled to Costa Rica on mission trips with St. John’s Episcopal Church and made many close friends along the way. They honeymooned in Costa Rica and were looking forward to celebrating their 19th wedding anniversary together on June 24th.

Following his Parkinson’s diagnosis, Garry retired early but remained engaged in advocacy and outreach. He and Kathryn became active participants in the Parkinson’s Association of the Carolinas, The World Parkinson’s Congress and other organizations dedicated to support and awareness.

Garry had a generous spirit and a great sense of fun. He loved golf, music, and spending time with family-especially at the annual Ballenger beach trip, where he and his brothers could often be found in a musical jam session. He was rarely seen without his signature red Converse sneakers and had a fondness for rhinos, collecting figurines from travels near and far-both his own and others’.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Kathryn; his beloved mother, Nancy; and his siblings, David, Lee, and Steve. He was a proud and loving father to sons Max, Bruce, and Jake, and stepdaughter, Devyn. His legacy lives on in his children, their spouses, and his seven grandchildren. Garry was preceded in death by his father, Bruce Garrison Ballenger, Sr., and stepdaughter, Kristen Alice Masters.

As Garry wished, his ashes will be scattered in the Blue Ridge Mountains. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Parkinson’s Association of the Carolinas or a Parkinson’s organization of your choice.

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