Eileen E. Ballard

With great sadness, the family of Eileen Ballard, 77, of Highgate, announces her passing.

Eileen was a loving mother, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted partner. Her children and family were truly her world.

Eileen grew up primarily in Grand Isle, Vermont, where she met Gilles "Frenchie" Ballard. Their love story began with a note he left for her, and from there a beautiful life together blossomed. They were married for 34 years and spent many happy years working together on their family farm while raising their four daughters.

One of Eileen's greatest joys was becoming a grandmother. Known lovingly as "Nana," she welcomed her first grandson and then four more grandchildren, who brought endless happiness to her life. Later, becoming a great-grandmother added even more joy, and being Nana to all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was one of the greatest blessings of her life.

After 34 years of marriage, Frenchie passed away.

Eileen was blessed to find love again when she met her best friend and companion, Robert Conger. Together, they shared many happy years enjoying trips to Daytona, walks on the beach, NASCAR races, and daily lunches with friends. For 23 years, they were rarely ever apart, building a life filled with companionship, laughter, and treasured memories.

Eileen is survived by her loving partner, Robert Conger; her daughters, Michelle Sotomayor and husband Jose Sotomayor, Hope Bockus and husband Brian, and Allison Montgomery and husband Philip; her beloved grandchildren, Kevin Sotomayor (Trish), Anthony Sotomayor (Ariel), Elizabeth Bockus, Dalton Bailey (Courtney) and many great-grandchildren; her sisters and brothers; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was predeceased by her husband, Gilles "Frenchie" Ballard; her daughter, Jill Ballard; and her sister, Patricia Lefebvre.

To know Eileen was to know the love of family. Whether cheering from the sidelines, gathering around the table, or simply enjoying time with those she loved, she found her greatest joy in the people God placed in her life. Her love, laughter, and memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to call her Mom, Nana, sister, partner, and friend. Though she will be deeply missed, the love she poured into her family will continue for generations to come. 

Friends and family are invited to Eileen's life celebration to include a visitation on Thursday, June 25th, 2026 from 11:00-1:00PM at the Goss life Celebration Home, 89 Grand Ave., Swanton, VT 05488. A Funeral service will follow at 1:00PM. Interment will follow in Grand Isle Village Cemetery.

Condolences, photos and favorite memories may be shared through www.gossfs.com