Evie Balch, 94, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, in Birmingham, Alabama. Born on October 4, 1931, in Genery's Gap, Alabama, she lived a remarkable life filled with dedication to her family, education, and community.
Evie’s early years were spent in Alabama, where she attended Greenwood Elementary in Bessemer and McAdory High School in McCalla. Her passion for learning led her to Birmingham-Southern College, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree and met her future husband. She later pursued her Master’s degree at Samford University in Birmingham. Her commitment to education shaped much of her professional life.
For two decades, Evie devoted herself to teaching school children before transitioning into the real estate industry. As a licensed realtor and broker, she excelled in her field and eventually began teaching real estate courses, sharing her expertise with others. Her career reflected her drive and determination as a trailblazer ahead of her time.
Evie was deeply rooted in the United Methodist Church community. As the wife of a Methodist minister, she played an integral role in every church where Allen was stationed to minister. Her faith and active involvement left a lasting impact on those around her.
Family was at the heart of Evie’s life. She is survived by her daughters Carol Balch, Ann Balch, and Dawn Balch-Smith (Tim); grandchildren Joseph Shelton, Joshua Balch, and Cassidy Lee (Jake); and one-month-old great-grandson Ryker Lee. She was predeceased by her parents Joseph Seales and Margie Porter Seales; her loving and devoted husband of 62 years Samuel Allen Balch Jr.; siblings Velma Carter, Joe Seales, Madge Pettit, Bill Seales, Jim Seales, and Hazel Seales; and her daughter Barbara Balch.
Evie had many talents and passions that enriched her life and the lives of those around her. She was an exceptional seamstress who loved to sew and a skilled cook who brought joy to family gatherings through her culinary creations. In adulthood, she took up ice skating alongside one of her daughters—a pursuit they enjoyed competitively together.
Evie’s legacy is one of love for family, faithfulness to community service, and an unwavering spirit of achievement. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and cherished her.
