Herman F. Ballay, Jr.

Herman F. Ballay Jr., a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, loyal friend, and pillar of his community, passed away peacefully at his cherished home in Home Place, Louisiana, on March 22, 2025, at the age of 75, surrounded by his children and his loving companion, Rita Patterson. Born on November 7, 1949, in Port Sulphur, Louisiana, to Herman F. Ballay Sr. and Ivalou Huval Ballay, Herman lived a life rich with meaning—rooted in integrity, purpose, and an unwavering love for the people and places that shaped him.

After bravely serving his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War—where he was awarded the Bronze Star for acts of valor—Herman returned home to South Louisiana to embark on a remarkable career in the oil industry. For more than three decades, including over 25 years as the lead supervisor at the Phillips 66 Lake Washington Field in Plaquemines Parish, Herman became known not only for his expert leadership and self-confidence, but also for a relentless work ethic that inspired all who worked alongside him.

Simultaneously, Herman carried on a treasured family tradition, working alongside his father on their multigenerational citrus farm, Home Place Citrus Grove. Eventually taking the reins, he poured his heart into the land, cultivating not only citrus but also a deep sense of pride and heritage. His handcrafted limoncello became a symbol of his generosity and his joy in sharing life’s simple pleasures with others.

Even after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, Herman remained steadfast in his dedication to his community. For more than 20 years, he served as a contracted Project Consultant Manager with the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff's Office, leading key recovery and infrastructure projects with the same diligence, compassion, and commitment that defined every chapter of his life.

A man of faith, Herman was a devoted member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, where he could be found every weekend, embodying the values of humility, service, and family. His strong moral compass, gracious spirit, and refined demeanor earned him the respect of all who knew him. Whether in his kitchen preparing a meal for loved ones, at the camp with a cocktail in hand, or keeping rhythm on his beloved drums, Herman brought warmth and connection to every gathering.

His proudest title, however, was that of family man. Married for 25 beautiful years to the love of his life, the late Cathy Romaire Ballay, Herman was the rock of his family—a source of unwavering love, laughter, and strength.

He leaves behind his children, Ann-Marie Ballay and Jacque Ballay, along with their spouses Stella Ballay and Brandon Ballay, who carry forward his legacy of love, resilience, and devotion. He also leaves behind his greatest joys—his grandchildren: Evan, Gavin, Rusten, Catherine, Sawyer, and Briggs Ballay, each a reflection of his enduring spirit.

Herman is also survived by his beloved siblings: Carol Simon Marmande, Virginia Brown Smith, and Charles Ballay, as well as his sister-in-law Claire Ballay, and a large, close-knit extended family of nieces, nephews, and cousins who adored him—and are, thankfully, too numerous to list, as he would proudly say with a smile.

An outdoorsman through and through, Herman found peace and camaraderie at the Olga Hunting and Fishing Club, where he made lifelong memories and lifelong friends. Whether hunting, fishing, dancing, or sharing stories, those moments in nature and fellowship were some of his happiest. He also had a deep love of travel, embracing new experiences, cultures, and cuisines with open arms and curiosity.

Herman F. Ballay Jr. will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, generosity, and service will live on through the family he cherished and the community he helped shape. Though we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life beautifully lived—a man who loved with his whole heart and left this world better than he found it.

Family and friends will gather to honor Herman’s life at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Port Sulphur, Louisiana.

Visitation will take place on March 27, 2025, from 9:30 AM until the Funeral Mass begins at 11:00 AM, followed by interment at the church cemetery at 12:00 PM. A Funeral Reception will be held at Woodland Plantation, where all are welcome to celebrate the extraordinary life of Herman F. Ballay Jr.