Jackie Ballard Fair, a devoted mom and homemaker, passed away on April 7, 2025, in Groves, Texas, at the age of 80. Born on June 12, 1944, in Port Arthur, Texas, Jackie was the beloved daughter of Lee and May Ballard.

Jackie's spirit and uniqueness shone through in every aspect of her life. For many years, she enjoyed playing volleyball at the Groves activity building and attending games at the Bridge City Little League Ballpark. A passionate card player, she looked forward to fun and laughter playing with her friends called the "Bourre Babes”. Anyone that knew her knew about her love for seafood.

She would often tell the story of her childhood memories of singing on the radio, a treasure that would stay with her throughout her life. Jackie’s joy was further amplified by her love for music and dancing, especially the jitterbug. She lit up when she was on the dance floor, all the way through her 80th birthday. Most importantly, she looked forward to spending quality time with her grandchildren, telling stories to others about them, and making up songs to sing to them.

Jackie is survived by her loving daughters, Jeannine Peveto of Orange, Texas, and April Gault and her husband Michael of Port Neches, Texas. She is also remembered by her sister, Cookie Moreau and her husband Blade of Jasper, Texas. Her legacy will live on through her adoring grandchildren, Shantel Crochet and her husband Dru, as well as Seth Peveto, and her great-grandchildren, Keegan and Kymbree Crochet, as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

Jackie is preceded in death by her parents Lee and May Ballard, brothers Marshall Ballard and Kenneth Ballard, and sister June Bertrand. She will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege to know her.

A graveside service will be held in her honor on April 11, 2025, at Oak Bluff Memorial Park in Port Neches, Texas, beginning at 10:00 AM. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who filled the lives of many with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Condolences: https://www.melanconlevingston.com/obituaries/jacquelyn-fair

Bertha Lee Hebert

December 5, 1933 - February 3, 2025

Bertha Lee Hebert, 91, of Nederland, Texas, entered into the presence of the Lord in Beaumont, Texas, on February 3, 2025. She was born in Port Arthur, Texas, on December 5, 1933, to Rose (Lachausse) and Elie Hebert.

Ms. Hebert is preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Alfred Hebert; a niece, Michelle Hebert Houle; and a nephew, Randy Hebert.

She is survived by her brother, Loyd Hebert (Shirdale), of Taylors, South Carolina; her long-time closest friend, Iris Marquardt of Beaumont, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ms. Hebert was truly a beacon of unwavering friendship and kindness and has left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were blessed enough to know her. She leaves behind a multitude of past students and friends who will cherish her memory.

Ms. Hebert was a retired physical education teacher at Thomas Jefferson High School in Port Arthur, Texas. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Lamar University and later, a Master of Education degree. She was loved and remembered by those whose lives she touched during her teaching years. It would not be unusual for an ex-student to come running up to her with open arms in a restaurant or wherever and give her hugs. And say, “you haven’t changed a bit”. She was a mentor, a friend, a caring person, and a true inspiration to her students.

Bertha was an avid golfer and loved going to the casinos. After she retired, she was President of the Henry Homberg Women’s Golf Association for numerous years. She also won the President’s Cup in the clubs’ championship tournament in 1999. She was immensely proud of her accomplishment of having three holes-in-one. Her best friend, Iris Marquardt, and she played Pebble Beach in 2007. A memory of a lifetime for an avid golfer. Many of her golfing buddies have become lifelong friends.

Bertha’s family and friends would like to give a special thank you to Iris for not only the years of cherished friendship, but the kind and loving care she has given Bertha in the last few years. Iris exemplifies the true meaning of friendship.

Ms. Hebert was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church, Nederland, Texas. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and many more whose lives were touched by her.

A private family gathering will be held at a later date.

Her cremation arrangements were handled under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont.

Condolences: https://broussards1889.com/obituary/32530/

I thought I would handle Bertha's Obit a little different. With my 125+ Annuals, I am privy to a lot of info that few others would have access to. In addition to all the HS Annuals, I have a few Lamar too.. Luckily I have Lamar 55 and 56, photos No. 4 and 5, where Bertha was a Junior and Senior.

She was recognized in High School too. Looking through the years, that it was in the 1960 Annual where she was first recognized as the Head of the Department, in just three years. The newest annual I have is 1974 and that is the last photo I post here. I didn't get a good scan there because all teachers were small snapshots so I went back and scanned the photo out of 1971, a great photo.

Comments: Alice Veal: You did a good job for Miss Hebert, she is proud! Yes, Miss Hebert was my PE teacher all thru Sr. High School. She was a good PE teacher, fair and very considerate. I can't think of anyone who didn't like her.

Miss Nancy McLain went to the same beauty shop as I did and periodically, she would keep me up to date on Miss Hebert. I remember her brother also from teaching school. How did you ever find out she passed, being at Broussard's in Bmt.? Our class is very lucky to have you to keep everyone up to date on things going on. I can't think of anything else you could add, except you did good.

Comment 2-18-25: Now it's back up. A good reason for having this page.

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