Mathalyn Xyvel Ballaz

At the age of 10, she moved with her family to Fresno, California, where she would spend the rest of her life. She graduated from Central High School in 1948, attended Brigham Young University, and went on to build a life centered on service, family, and community.

Mathalyn was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Throughout her life, she faithfully served in many callings, including Primary President, Young Women’s President, and Relief Society President, touching countless lives with her kindness and dedication.

She was also deeply involved in her community. She served as PTA President at John Muir Elementary School and later dedicated 35 years as the librarian at McKinley Elementary School, where she fostered a love of reading and learning in generations of students.

Mathalyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband and eternal companion, Felix Ballaz. Later in life she found companionship and love again with her second husband, Evan Cox, who also preceded her in death. She is survived by her daughter Patti Ballaz and Patti’s wife, Lourdes; and her daughter Nancy Nicolls and Nancy’s husband, Ed. She is also survived by her loving grandchildren: Ashley Burton and her husband Michael, Austin Nicolls, and Kristen Bennion and her husband Austin; as well as four great-grandsons and three great-granddaughters. She is also survived by her brother, Doug Atwood of Utah, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 220 N Peach Avenue in Clovis, Ca. on Friday, May 1, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Belmont Memorial Park.

Mathalyn will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her commitment to service, and the lasting impact she made on her family and community.