It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of William Blain Markham, a dearly loved husband, father, grandfather, brother, pastor, and friend. Blain was born on September 7, 1958, and departed from this world on January 31, 2024, surrounded by family.

Blain was a 1977 graduate of Ruston High School where he excelled in basketball and was awarded numerous athletic scholarships. His coach, Leon Barmore, states, “I consider myself truly blessed to have been able to coach Blain and to get to know his family. I remember him moving back to Ruston from El Dorado in the midst of his senior year just in time to help us win a District Championship. He was truly one of a kind.”

Blain, thereafter, attended East TX Baptist College and Christ Body Bible College. Embracing his calling at a young age, he was licensed and ordained as a minister at 17, dedicating his life to the Word and teachings of God. He would later pastor several churches in both Texas and Louisiana. Most recently, he was serving at Piney Woods Christian Church in Downsville, LA. Blain’s associate pastor, Thomas Patton, said that he met Blain on a weekend men’s retreat in 2017, and their relationship grew into a friendship that is hard to put into words. Patton claims that Blain was a great teacher and a wealth of knowledge to us all. Patton goes on to say, “I have never met a man who loved Jesus, Andy Griffith, or “homemade” banana pudding more than Blain Markham. He is where he has always longed to be!”

Blain found happiness in simple pursuits like woodworking, reading, and cooking. His most recent accomplishment of mastering the lathe with his grandson Taylor epitomized his love for learning and embracing new challenges. His ingrained belief in being punctual and prepared will be remembered by all as he often said, “If you’re not 15 minutes early, you’re late.”

Perhaps most defining of Blain’s character was his deep passion for studying the Bible. He spent countless hours preparing sermons and Bible studies, firmly believing there were no boring Bible studies, only boring Bible teachers. Indeed, Blain was anything but boring.

2016 marked a turning point in his life. That year he met and married Judy Pylant Markham, his last love and partner in ministry. They were a love pair, reminiscent of a modern-day Andy and Barney. Their shared passion for their faith radiated in both their church and community, leaving a deep and lasting legacy.

Predeceased by his parents, W.H. and Pauline Markham, Blain is survived by his devoted wife Judy Markham, his three children, David (Jennifer) Markham, Angela Markham, and Briannah Markham. He is also survived by his siblings, Rene (Danny) Satterfield, Lori (Delmar) Pippin, and Yvette Markham as well as his sisters-in-law, Carla (Jimmy) Sandifer and Brenda Smiley. His memory will be cherished by his grandchildren, Kollin, Reagen, Taylor, Hannah, and Lydia. Each grandchild had their own special name for him. Blain was Big Daddy, Precious Grandfather, PawPaw, and PopPop. Blain also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and his precious Piney Woods Christian Church family whom he appreciated and loved dearly.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Blain’s life. A visitation will be held 12:30 P.M. until service time, Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Piney Woods Christian Church, followed by a funeral service at 2:00 P.M. at Piney Woods Christian Church with Thomas Patton and David Markham officiating the service.  Blain will be laid to rest at the Douglas Cemetery in Ruston, LA following the service under the direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Home in Ruston.

Pallbearers will be Steve Basco, Shane Cretein, Jay Melancon, John McClendon, Mervin Trull, and Philip Wood.  Honorary Pallbearers will be PWCC Family.

Memorials may be made to Piney Woods Christian Church; “Give ‘Em Jesus” Ministries; and St. Jude’s Childrens Hospital.

Blain’s life was a testament to faith, love, and resilience. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, but his teachings and memories will forever remain in our hearts.

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