Olivia Balam Obituary

Olivia Shannon Balam, 76, of Hattiesburg, passed away on July 11, 2025, at her home. She was born on November 26, 1948, in Forrest County. Olivia graduated from Hattiesburg High School, class of 1967. She previously worked at Hattiesburg Cable and Bedford Care previously known as Conva-Rest of Hattiesburg. Olivia was a member at Mt. Olive Baptist Church. She enjoyed playing bingo, going to the casino and spending time with her family and church. Olivia was a loving mother, grandmother, companion, sister and friend to all that knew her and will be missed dearly.
Olivia is preceded in death by her parents, Levi Shannon and Mary Osbey; son, Herman McGilvery; husband, Elbert Balam and two brothers, Thomas and Richard Osbey. She leaves to cherish her memories: three children, Sherman McGilvery (Mary), Reginald Waters and Wyomia Waters; her special friend and companion, James H. Jones; Goddaughter, Katrina Gardner; grandchildren: Sherman McGilvery, Jr., Kadricka McGilvery, Donmorreya Waters, Deferreyunna Chambers, Damien Waters, Jerrel Burkett and Kingston Gardner; one sister, Brownie Lee Patterson; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.