Our Sweet Lainee

Elaine “Lainee” Ballinger — November 1962 to December 2022 (60 years)

Lainee was a compassionate and encouraging soul with a wonderful sense of humor and a heart overflowing with forgiveness and love. She had a way of making anyone feel comfortable — whether by her gentle laugh, a note slipped quietly into a hand, or a listening ear at just the right moment.

In June of 1980, Lainee married her best friend and soulmate, Jerry Ballinger. “True love always” was their promise, and for more than 42 years they truly lived it. Second only to her faith in Jesus, her greatest joy was her family — she poured her heart into her role as wife, mama, nana, and friend.

In October of 2022, Lainee was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer that had metastasized to her bones. Even then, her spirit was unshaken. Nurses often said they fought over who got to take care of her — because she was so kind, funny, and full of grace. After 41 days of courage, Lainee’s Savior welcomed her home in December 2022.

We do not believe she “lost her battle” with cancer, because that would mean cancer won. Instead, Lainee’s survivorship continues in heaven. Her legacy is carried forward by those who knew and loved her, and by the work of Lainee’s Love — an ongoing ripple of kindness, hope, and compassion.

Lainee’s Favorite Things

  • A good cup of coffee and a long talk.
  • Cracking everyone up with her razor sharp wit.
  • Leaving encouragement notes in surprising places.
  • Worship music in the car, windows down and singing.
  • Quiet acts of care — helping neighbors, checking in on friends.
  • Spreading joy, even in the hardest times.

A Legacy of Love

Lainee’s life was a living example of these words:

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” — 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

Through Lainee’s Love, her kindness continues — one shirt, one story, one act of care at a time.