Michael Tol Balch, a brilliant physician, passed away on April 23, 2026. Born to Wanda McCleskey Balch and James Bruton Balch, he dedicated his career to medicine and worked tirelessly in his devotion to his wife, Jane Balch.
Michael grew up in Levelland, Texas, and graduated from Levelland high school. He went on to attend South Plains college and West Texas State University before earning his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas where he specialized in internal medicine. He dedicated his career to his medical practice, working as a physician until a massive stroke tragically ended his decades of service.
Recognized as Doctor of the Year and a member of the AOA Honor Society, Michael was deeply respected in his profession by his peers and his patients. Evey patient adored his kind demeanor, valuing both his medical expertise and his genuine compassion. He viewed everyone as equals with no place in his life for discrimination-something all who knew him recognized immediately. A Distinguished Alumni of South Plains College, he was known for his brilliance, his love of intellectual discussion and physics and his passion for the mountains and nature. Michael’s life was enriched by his love of animals-he shared his home with many beloved pets-and by his gifted piano playing, particularly his passion for classical music.
In his later years, he lovingly supported his three children and three stepchildren, who were devoted to his care and wellbeing.
He is survived by his wife, Jane Balch; his children Jennifer Lee (married to Jessica Carpio) and their son Edward Lee, Christopher Balch and Allison Genovese (married to David Genovese) and their children Ava Genovese and Samuel Genovese; his stepchildren Douglas Jeffrey IV (married to Molly Jeffrey) and their children Douglas Jeffrey V, James Jeffrey, Benson Jeffrey and Betsey Jeffrey; Kate Williamson (married to Clint Willamson) and their children Hunter Willamson and Ella Willamson and Charles Jeffrey (married to Lacey Jeffrey) and their children Charles Jeffrey and Marie Jeffrey; his siblings James Balch (married to Sandy Balch), Candace Figg (married to the late Harold Figg) and Bill Balch (married to Tammy Balch).
Michael will be remembered and a man of brilliance and a dedicated physician.
A celebration of life will be held with family on August 8th in Graham, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to your local animal shelter or to the South Plains College Foundation in his memory.