Evelyn Louiza Balch passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on January 10, 1933, in Stoutland, Missouri, to Fred and Floy Brown, Evelyn lived a life of faith, kindness, and devotion to her family. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, and her warmth, sweetness, and calm presence touched everyone who knew her.

She is survived by her son, Dr. Hez Balch, and his wife, Bonnie, of Graham, Texas; her daughter, Lisa Ward, and her husband, Rob, of Southlake, Texas; her daughter-in-law, Mary Balch, of Springfield, Missouri; her grandchildren, Eric Balch and his wife, Jennifer; Jennifer Balch-Lopez and her husband, Andres; Holly Balch and her husband, Ben Brownlow; Dr. Nicholas Ward and his fiancée, Dr. Megan Meyer; Dr. Paige Ward- Guella and her husband, Christian; and Mitchell Ward; as well as her three great- grandchildren, Catalina Lopez, Clint Lopez, and Grace Guella.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 56 years, Emmet Hezekiah Balch Jr., and her son, Brian Peyton Balch. 

Evelyn enjoyed playing and watching golf and was a member of Ridglea Country Club for more than 40 years. She found great joy in spending time with her family, and her gentle spirit, quiet strength, wisdom, and unconditional love will be remembered always. We are grateful for the love, guidance, and example she shared throughout her life. Her legacy lives on through her family and all whose lives she touched. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.