Ella Ray Whitehead

Ella Whitehead, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026, at the age of 90, in Beaumont, TX. Born on January 1, 1936, Ella lived a life filled with love, dedication, and joy.

Ella spent her early years in the Winnie Stowell area, where she developed a strong spirit and a love for her community. She attended East Chambers High School, where her vibrant personality shone as a cheerleader, and her athletic talent led her to a state championship in basketball. Following high school, Ella met and married her first husband, Thomas J. Ballenger, Sr., and together they welcomed their beloved sons, “The boys”, Tommy and Johnny, into the world. After the passing of her first husband, Ella found love again and married Carl C. Whitehead, with whom she shared 25 years until his passing.

Ella was a woman of many talents and passions. She pursued her education at Lamar University, studying real estate, and dedicated many years to working in that industry. Her love for books and knowledge also led her to a fulfilling career as a librarian, a role she cherished, especially during her time with the Beaumont Independent School District. Beyond her professional life, Ella enjoyed a rich array of hobbies, including reading, sewing, and traveling. She was a skilled seamstress, crafting many of her own clothes, including her cheer uniform, and even making one for her younger sister. She particularly enjoyed traveling, embarking on many memorable journeys across the country with her cherished friends. Her travels also took her to remarkable international destinations, including Rome and the Holy Land. Her visit to the Holy Land had a profound impact on her, and upon her return, she dedicated herself to sharing her testimony with various churches. Ella was a faithful Christian and a devoted member of Westgate Memorial Baptist Church in Beaumont.

Ella's warm heart and loving spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her devoted sons, Thomas J. Ballenger, Jr. and his wife Linda, and Johnny Ballenger and his wife Mary Kay. She leaves behind a legacy of love in her grandchildren, Thomas J. Ballenger III and Brooklyn Ballenger, and her great-grandchildren, Thomas J. Ballenger IV, Kayla Ballenger, Chevyl Kendrick, Carter Williams, Andy Williams, and Cam Williams. She is also survived by her loving brother, Wilford Emenhiser.

Ella was preceded in death by her first husband, Thomas J. Ballenger, Sr., the father of her children; her second husband of 25 years, Carl C. Whitehead; her parents, Wilford "Bud" and Vera Emenhiser; and her sister, Mary Ann Rougeau.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 pm, Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at LaBrie Claybar Funeral Services in Beaumont, Texas. Officiating will be Reverend Raymond McHenry of Westgate Memorial Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Beaumont, Texas.

Visitation time will be held prior to the service beginning at 11:00 am, Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at LaBrie Claybar Funeral Services in Beaumont, Texas.

Pallbearers will be Anthony Deckert, Thomas J. Ballenger III, Thomas J. Ballenger IV, Carson Jannise, Greg Wales, and Greg Moss.

Honorary Pallbearers will be David Ballenger, Tommy Fielder, and Tommy Crane.