Harold Ball

Celebrating the Life of Harold Douglas Ball

November 7, 1936 – April 25, 2025

With hearts full of love and deep gratitude, we celebrate the extraordinary life of Harold “Hal” Douglas Ball, who transitioned peacefully on April 25, 2025, at the age of 88. A man of wisdom, warmth, and quiet strength, Harold lived each day with intention, compassion, and an ever-present twinkle in his eye.

Born on November 7, 1936, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Leslie and Daisy Ball, Harold was raised in Los Angeles, California, where his magnetic personality and bright spirit became evident from a young age. He had a natural way of lighting up every room he entered—through his unforgettable smile, his thoughtful presence, and his unwavering kindness. People felt truly seen and valued in Harold’s company. Whether over a heartfelt conversation or a shared shrimp cocktail and cocktail hour with friends, he made the ordinary feel extraordinary.

After graduating from Los Angeles High School, Harold pursued higher education at the University of Southern California (USC), where he laid the groundwork for a long and impactful career with AT&T. It was there that Harold's natural gift with people stood out—so much so that company executives selected him to serve as a community liaison for the South-Central Los Angeles area, recognizing his unique ability to connect, uplift, and unite. Harold’s career was distinguished not just by professional success, but by how he made others feel: heard, respected, and empowered.

That spirit of community leadership only grew after retirement. Harold and his beloved husband of 57 years, Bob Covington, later made their home in the Coachella Valley, where Harold’s dedication to public service and civic engagement left a lasting mark. A chance meeting at an event sparked a lifelong friendship with Ron Oden, leading Harold to play a key role in a historic moment for Palm Springs. He chaired Ron’s campaign and later served over a decade on the city’s Administrative Appeals Board, many of those years as chairman. He led with humility, grace, and an unwavering commitment to fairness and community.

Though Harold never sought the spotlight, his quiet leadership and tireless service inspired everyone around him. He had a rare gift for motivating and encouraging others to pursue their dreams—helping them hone their voices and use their gifts to make the world a better place. He led not with volume, but with presence and purpose.

Harold’s legacy is woven into the hearts of all who knew him. He was a beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend—a true confidant and pillar of strength. He had a brilliant mind, sharp wit, and gentle soul, and the love and laughter he shared will echo through generations.

He is now joyfully reunited with his soulmate Bob, his parents Leslie and Daisy Ball, and siblings Fred Ball, Juliette Ball, Alvin Ball, and Dolores Reid, as well as his niece and nephew, Rohmi and Mark Reid.

Harold leaves behind a loving legacy and is survived by a host of nieces and nephews: Michelle Ball, Eric Ball, Frederick Ball, Alison Ball, Erin Ball, Clarke Ball, Tyler Kilmer, Ava Ball, and Aliyah Kilmer, along with countless beloved friends and chosen family who cherished him deeply.

Though our hearts are heavy, we choose to celebrate Harold’s life—the lessons he instilled, the joy he spread, and the deep, unconditional love he gave so freely. The City of Palm Springs and the world is better because he was here. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the love he left behind.

We will miss him deeply, but we were so very lucky to have known him.