John Gaylord Balsamo, 78, of Monroe, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026. He was born on January 7, 1948, and lived a life defined by love, dedication, and an ever-present smile. Funeral service will be 2:00PM Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Rowland Road Baptist Church with Rev. Norman Bryant officiating under the direction of Mulhearn Funeral Home Sterlington Rd. Monroe. Interment will follow in Mulhearn Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00PM until 7:00PM Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Rowland Road Baptist Church.

John was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a cherished Papaw. His greatest joy came from his family, and he poured his heart into each role he held. A lifelong hard worker, John believed in showing up, doing right by others, and providing for those he loved. No matter the circumstances, his warm smile and kind spirit were constants that brought comfort to everyone around him.

John had a deep love for baseball and could most often be found cheering from the stands, watching his children and grandchildren play sports. Those moments were some of his happiest. He was their biggest supporter and loudest fan, and his presence will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Becky Balsamo; his four children, Amanda (Jeff), John (Rachel), Chris (Krystal), and Darren (Katy); and his eleven grandchildren, Clint, Amber (Kyle), Maddie, Katelyn (Byron), Kylie (Caleb), Trevor, Shelby, Carter (fiancé Jocelyn), Paxton, Drew, and Vivian. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, Emma, Kendall, and Wyatt, who brought him immense joy; brother, Steve Balsamo (Candy); sisters, Gloria Sims (Randy), Anne Convelle; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

John was preceded in death by his parents, Audrey Balsamo, Matthew Balsamo, and Myrtis Balsamo; and his siblings, Frank Balsamo, Vincent Balsamo, James Balsamo, Tommy Balsamo, Willis Balsamo, Leo Balsamo, Edgar Balsamo, Roger Balsamo, Alan Balsamo, and Sally Patrick.

John Gaylord Balsamo leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and family devotion. His smile, steady presence, and unconditional love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.