Mattie Lee Beard Belfoure, age 80, of Texarkana, Texas, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025. She was born on March 21, 1945, in Red Banks, Mississippi, to John Beard and Fannie Lee Beard, both of whom preceded her in death.

Mattie was a devoted educator and coach whose passion for teaching and athletics shaped countless lives. She attended Mt. St. Mary’s Catholic High School, Coahoma Junior College, and Delta State University, where she laid the foundation for a distinguished career in education. Known for her discipline, encouragement, and love for students, she served as an educator and coach for many years.

Her excellence in coaching was widely recognized. Mattie earned Coach of the Year honors in 1978, 1980, 1983, and 1984, and led her teams to State Championship titles in 1978, 1979, 1983, and 1984. In recognition of her lasting impact, she was inducted into the Central High School Hall of Fame in Helena, Arkansas, in 2017.

Mattie was a woman of strong Christian faith and lived her life guided by her beliefs. In her leisure time, she enjoyed sports, reading, and watching movies, often sharing those moments with family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings Helen Oliver, Johnnie Beard, and Jessie Austin. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Debbie Belfoure and Jeff Belfoure (Mary Anne Belfoure); her grandchildren, McKinna Belfoure, Ja’Nae Moody, Jaylon Brown, and Theron Lacy Jr.; and her great-grandchild, Emersyn Dillard. She is also survived by her siblings Mary Moore, Willie Beard, Dorothy Porter, Wilbert Beard, and Albert Beard, along with a host of extended family, former students, and friends.

A memorial service celebrating Mattie’s life will be held on March 14, 2026, in Red Banks, Mississippi.

Her legacy of leadership, dedication, and compassion will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

Arrangements Entrusted to Tri-State Cremation & Funeral Services.

Mattie Belfoure

March 21, 1945 - December 05, 2025

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