Marty Ballard

February 15, 1970 - February 8, 2024

Martin Glynn Ballard passed from his earthly life on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at the age of 53 years in Beaumont, Texas.

Fondly known as “Marty”, he was born in 1970 as the first child of Glynn and Bonnie Thibodeaux Ballard. Marty Graduated from West Brook High School before attending Lamar University where he graduated with a Real Estate Degree in 2000.

Marty bestowed his infectious personality, wonderful sense of humor, and giving nature to everyone he met. His door was always open, especially to visitors who showed up with a cooler full of ice-cold beer. The cast of character coming through and the banter that followed would give any TV sitcom a run for their money. Marty’s antics were legendary and those who knew him have their own stories to tell. He was strong-willed and stubborn at times, but there was another side to him. Marty had compassion. Despite his daunting responsibilities, he never failed to be anything less than a devoted son, more often than not to the exclusion of his own needs.

Marty was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them the life he felt they deserved. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world, something he often mentioned. Marty was endingly proud of Holden and Seth, and always supported them through thick and thin. Anyone who knew Marty knew that he was the most loving father a family could ask for and the friend you could always count on, especially to the many four-legged buddies who found themselves looking for and finding a forever home beside him and his family.

We know that Marty is enveloped by the love of his grandparents, R.A. and Thelma Ballard, and Elzy and Letha Thibodeaux; and father-in-law, Richard Sanders, who passed before him, along with several of the best canine companions anyone could ever have.

Marty is survived by his wife and best friend of thiry-three years, Jackie Ballard; their children who were his most prized possessions, Holden Ballard and Seth Ballard; his dear friends, James Brown III, and Olivia Manibo; beloved mother-in-law, Donna Jo Sanders; sister-in-law, Michelle Sanders; brother-in-law, Ricky Sanders; parents, Glynn and Bonnie Ballard; sister, MaRae Collier and her husband, Charlie Collier; as well as beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, countless dear friends, colleagues, and acquaintances.

Family and friends are invited to come and share fond memories and stories during a Celebration of Life to honor Marty at 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Friday, February 16, 2024, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont.

His heart of this world may have failed but his spirit was stubbornly strong.

Video

Download Program

Gathering of Family and Friends

Broussard’s Mortuary Major Dr.
  • 1605, North Major Drive, Beaumont, Texas, 77713,
  • February 16, 2024
  • 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Comments (47)

    Chris Hymel says:

    Martin befriended me in high school. I remember him being a combination of his family’s traits: Glynn’s work ethic, Bonnie’s kindness and MaRae’s wit.

    Marty the ringleader of fellowship and countless good times, either parading through the Ballard’s home or testing the outer limits of 1 Ford Bronco.

    Though I moved away decades ago; from time to time, Marty and I paths would cross and we would share our wild times with Jackie, who never seemed surprised?

    We will all miss his friendship, kindness, and humor.

    Joyce Hart says:

    Glynn and Bonnie
    I am so sorry for the loss of your son, Marty! Prayers for y’all and your family for peace and comfort during this devastating time ✝️

    Carleen Bradley says:

    Dear Ballard Family….

    Thinking of you in this difficult time. Sending prayers and heartfelt love.

    Stephanie Bourg says:

    Jackie, grief is not about forgetting, but about remembering. It’s the Wonderful Memories that gives you the strength to keep going. I can never go to Crystal Beach without thinking of the Ballard’s Beach Cabin, knowing it was Always a Great time there! As you grieve for Marty, please know that you are in my heart, my thoughts, and my prayers. Much Love to You, Holden and Seth

    Todd and Alicia (Livesay) Pirtle says:

    We were stunned and saddened to hear of Marty’s passing. He was a true friend that never lost contact with those he cared about. We will always remember his humor and caring personality. We still call ice from the ice dispenser in our refrigerator “Marty Ice” because he would bring his cooler full of beer with home ice instead of store bought. If in a pinch to ice a cooler, we say “grab some Marty ice.”
    Jackie and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. We know you are grieving but we also know you will always have such wonderful memories and that one day, you’ll be able to only smile and laugh when you think of him. With love, Todd and Alicia

    SHANA SWILLEY PETERSON says:

    Jackie, my heart truly goes out to you and your family. I am so so sorry. Marty was one of a kind and a good friend of mine in high school. He was so funny and fun to be around! I was shocked to hear of his passing. I have many fond memories of Marty.
    I wish you and your family peace in this difficult time.

    Martha Bland says:

    To know Marty was to love Marty! I feel blessed to call him my friend. Since high school our paths have crossed many times, in many ways and through many precious friends. Thank you Marty for all the laughs!! Jackie, Holden and Seth, you are not alone. We are here. We are praying for you. We love you. Until we meet again…..

    Ron Berwick says:

    I was transferred to Christian Schools of Beaumont in 6th grade, and didn’t know anyone outside of Amelia at the time. I was suddenly in school with a bunch of kids from the West End who didn’t know me, and I didn’t know them. Understandably nervous in a new crowd, Marty was an immediate friend, friendly face, and partner in crime. I suspect many many people have the same experience with Marty B, nothing but smiles, good times, and great memories and the friendliest face in the crowd. Love ya buddy and exceedingly proud to call you my friend. Godspeed.

    Kathy Stegemann says:

    I am heartbroken. Prayers for Jackie, the boys , his parents and his family today and the days ahead for strength, comfort and peace.

    Wendy Cardenas says:

    Marty was one of a kind! Amazing sense of humor and a smile that’s unforgettable, but the one thing that stands out the most (in my mind) was that Marty had such a kind soul, he always made everyone feel “included”. I truly appreciated that part of his personality.
    I’m so sorry for your loss Jackie. My continued prayers for peace that surpasses all understanding for you, y’all’s boys and family 💜

    Ashley McCloud says:

    Jackie and family: My deepest condolences on the loss of Marty. Sending all my thoughts, love, and prayers as you navigate this difficult time.

    BONNIE BALLARD says:

    I am truly sorry for your loss. Cherish all your memories you have made. My prayers go out to you all.
    Sheri Koch

    Dory Soriano says:

    So sorry for your loss. May he Rest in Peace. May your whole family find peace and comfort in this difficult time.

    Cheryl Grisanti says:

    Jackie and family,

    So sorry to hear of the passing of Marty. Prayers for you and your family.

    Frank & Cheryl Grisanti

    Amy Briggs says:

    Jackie and boys,
    I am so very sorry for the loss of Marty. He was always so upbeat and friendly. When I think of our high school years, I always think of you two. I know you have lots of wonderful memories to sustain you.

    Cliff Leland says:

    Glynn and Bonnie, I am so sorry for your loss of Marty. He surely must have been a fine young man from a fine family. I feel heart broken for both of you. God will take very good care of him .

    DeNae Lee says:

    Jackie, I am so sorry to hear about Marty. I am praying for you and your family during this difficult time.

    Diana Miles says:

    I’m very sorry for the loss of Marty. Praying for comfort and strength for you and your sweet boys.

    Bonnie, & MaRae and All Ballard Family says:

    I have you All in my heart and prayers.

    Annetta Craigen says:

    Glenn and Bonnie, we are so sorry to read about the loss of your son. He sounds like a remarkable man with many great qualities. I can’t even begin to imagine what you are going through but know that we are praying for comfort and acceptance for both of you. Prayers and healing thoughts to you. James and Annetta

    Lisa Cecil says:

    I’m truly sorry Jackie, Holden and Seth. My heart and prayers are with y’all during this difficult time. Marty was such a dear friend and we all became like family. There are so many memories and fun times over the last 25 years. He had one of the biggest hearts and was always there for anyone who needed him. I was blessed to have worked for him and be a part of such a loving family. You will be truly missed Marty. May God give you all peace and comfort. We love y’all.

    Lisa and Mike Cecil

    Heath Parsons says:

    I’m heartbroken to hear this. For his parents, Jackie, Sister and kids.
    We had so many good times together. I don’t know how many years. Over 40.
    See you soon buddy !

    Effie Butts says:

    Jackie, so sorry to hear about Marty. My prayers are with you & the boys. May God wrap you in his loving arms and give you the comfort you need at this difficult time.

    Leslie Lea says:

    Jackie, I am so sorry to have heard of the passing of Marty. I will keep you and your sweet boys in my prayers. <3

    Lisa Black says:

    Praying God’s love and peace would surround you and your family during this difficult time. Marty is a wonderful person! I loved being in home room with him! He was always happy and friendly! God bless you!

    Sheila Lowry Brock says:

    Jackie – you are in my thoughts and prayers. Marty was an awesome person.

    Camille Farris says:

    May God’s comfort and peace surround you and your family during this time of deepest sorrow.
    I will always remember you guys together from way back in high school. The cutest couple around. Marty’s perpetual smile and giggle are etched on my heart. Such a bright light.

    Joe & Vicki Cascio says:

    We are so very sorry for your loss of Marty. Jackie prayers go out to you and Holden & Seth as well as your family & friends🙏❤️🙏

    Christy M. Williams says:

    Dear Jackie and Family,
    May the Lord sustain and keep you during this time of sorrow. Much love and support.
    Love,
    Pam Pacetti

    Judy Morton/Henry says:

    Raising boys in our old neighborhood brought many memories of Marty.So sorry for your sudden loss.

    Karen & James Robichaux says:

    Jackie, Holden, Seth and family,
    We are so very sorry to hear about the loss of Marty. We send our deepest sympathy and we pray that God will surround you all with his love and fill you with his peace and strength.

    Love and prayers!
    Karen & James

    Jerrie Walton Hebert says:

    Jackie,
    I’m so very saddened to hear of Marty’s passing. My heart breaks for you, the boys and family. Please know my prayers of comfort and peace are with you always. Big hugs to you all.

    Regina Jackson says:

    Dearest Jackie and boys,
    I am so very sorry to hear about Marty. I will continue to pray for peace for each of you. My heart hurts to see your hearts hurting. Just know that you are loved and prayed for.
    Love,
    Regina

    Kim Challie says:

    I’m so saddened about the passing of Marty. We worked together many many years ago when he was a student at Lamar in Recreational Sports Dept. He did personal training in the Rec. Center. He always had a smile on his face. Praying for Jackie and his boys and family. Rest in peace my friend.

    Kelli O’Neal Savage says:

    Jackie, Holden, and Seth- Marty was a great guy who will be missed! We love you all and are praying for peace and comfort during this difficult time.

    Lisa Mitchell LeBlanc says:

    I am truly sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to Marty’s family.

    Jo Ann Hughes says:

    Jackie , Holden, Seth & family ,
    Our deepest sympathy and love to you all ,
    Words can not express our sorrow and pain for you during this most difficult time ,
    Marty will truly be missed , his love for you and the boys will always be forever in your heart for comfort and peace . God Bless you and give you strength 🙏🏻🙏🏻
    We love you !
    Jo Ann & Buddy

    Julee & Troy Williams says:

    May the memories of Marty always bring you peace and a smile.
    Our hearts and prayers are with you.

    Holli Cruse says:

    I am saddened to hear about Marty. He was such a sweet guy. Prayers for Jackie and his family.

    Carol Corbin says:

    I worked with Marty in an office in Beaumont some years ago. He was cheerful and upbeat. It grieves me that he has left this world so soon. Please accept my condolences.

    Greg & Desiree Rice says:

    Jackie we are so sorry for your loss. Marty was a good man who seemed to always have a smile on his face. He will be dearly missed.

    Andy Mitchell says:

    I am deeply saddened to hear this. Marty was a longtime childhood friend. Praying for the Ballard family.

    Deborah Laird Walker says:

    Jackie,

    So very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. May your memories carry you through the days and years to come.

    Brenda Munoz says:

    My deepest condolences Jackie on Marty’s passing. May our Lord hold you and your wonderful sons in his loving and comforting arms. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

    Brenda Munoz says:

    My deepest condolences Jackie on Marty’s passing. May our Lord hold you and your wonderful sons in his loving and comforting arms. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

    Lauren McCartney says:

    Jackie, Holden, Seth, and Family my condolences to you .Y’all are in my thoughts and prayers. Prayers for strength in this difficult time. Love you all.

    Diane Cannon says:

    I am so sorry for your loss of Marty. Sending many prayers and peace at this difficult time. God Bless You All!

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