Last Saturday, (September 6th) several local dignitaries gathered to dedicate the Robert K. Ballew Bridge. The bridge is located south of June Walker Chevrolet on Highway 515 across from Pete’s Place. The selected bridge for the dedication was a fitting one as it overlooks the old home of Mr. Ballew.

Life long friends and family were on hand to celebrate and remember all of the wonder thing Ballew did for the community and individuals.

A House Resolution sponsored by local State Representative and Georgia House Speaker, David Ralston, serves as the legislative blue print for the bridge’s new title.

Ballew served as a local attorney for 55 years. He was also once the Mayor of Blue Ridge, in addition to serving as a state senator representing our region. . He was born on March 1, 1926 in McCaysville, Georgia.

He served in the United States Army Air Force and was a long-time member of the Blue Ridge United Methodist Church.

Ballew was also a 32 degree Master Mason and a member of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine (commonly known as the Shriners).

Local Attorney Harry Doss, who delivered the eulogy at Ballew’s funeral said this of the man:

“Robert King Ballew was ad the gifted orator, who possessed a keen legal mind. Mr. Ballew knew and respected the law; he knew both civil and criminal procedure and he utilized his knowledge to benefit his clients. He was gracious and shared the breath of his experience with younger attorneys. He was a mentor and a friend.”