Jermaine Ballenger

Obituary

  Jermaine Ballenger Sr from Fulshear Texas, Entered into eternal rest on Saturday, June 27, 2026. he was the son of Roeman McClintock and Jennie Ballenger Nelson,

Pastor Jermaine Ballenger Sr. is a native of Duncan, South Carolina; who joined the United States Marine Corps in 1994.  He commenced his journey in gospel ministry in 1995. While stationed in North Carolina, Pastor Ballenger met his lovely wife, Sa’Kina E. Blount of Jacksonville; and joined her in holy matrimony on May 19, 1998.  Despite multiple transitions from military moves, they continued faithfully in ministry wherever they were assigned. He and Co-Pastor Sa’Kina Ballenger have two beautiful children: Jasiah (J-asia), and Jermaine Jr.

He was preceded in death by his, Paternal grandparents: Thomas Latta and Clara McClintock Bland, Bernard and Geraldine Ballenger

Surviving is a daughter, Jasiah Ballenger of the home, and  son Jermaine Ballenger Jr. of the home. a brother, Marlo (Nikki) Foster Indianapolis, Indiana; sisters: Jermilla Ballenger, Greer), Jamika Ballenger (Taylors), Jamie Nelson (Greenville) sister- law in Davyana Charles. a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends

A Legacy of Faith, Service, and Leadership

Pastor Jermaine Ballenger Sr. is a highly decorated United States Marine Corps veteran, an accomplished public sector leader, and an esteemed gospel minister. Throughout a lifetime defined by service, Pastor Ballenger has maintained an unwavering dedication to his country, his family, and his faith.

Military Career & Distinguished Service

A native of Duncan, South Carolina, Pastor. Ballenger enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1994. Over a distinguished 20-year career, he rose through the ranks to retire as Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CWO2). His military tenure was marked by critical leadership roles and exceptional performance, including:

1st Battalion, Charlie Company (2001–2004): Served as a Drill Instructor at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, SC, where his leadership earned him multiple drill, battalion, and regimental awards. 

Marine Corps Helicopter Squadron One (HMX-1) (2004–2007): Requested to serve at the prestigious presidential helicopter squadron.

His extensive list of military decorations includes:

Medals: Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (2), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2), Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal (4), National Defense Service Medal (2), and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

Ribbons & Citations: Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation (3), Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon (2), Marine Corps Drill Instructor Ribbon, and a Meritorious Mast.

Marksmanship & Commendations: Expert Rifle Qualification Badge (4), Expert Pistol Qualification Badge (8), 11 Individual Certificates of Commendation, 1 Unit Certificate of Commendation, and 12 Letters of Appreciation.

Ministry, Family, and Spiritual Leadership

Pastor Ballenger commenced his journey in gospel ministry in 1995. While stationed in North Carolina, he attended Shiloh Pentecostal Holiness Church under Bishop Dr. Robert Meredith, serving faithfully as an Usher and a Deacon. It was through this ministry that he met Sa’Kina E. Blount of Jacksonville, North Carolina. The two were joined in holy matrimony on May 19, 1998, and went on to share both a life and a pastoral calling. They welcomed their two beautiful children, Jasiah S. Ballenger and Jermaine S. Ballenger, Jr.

As military orders relocated his family, Pastor Ballenger continued to build ministries and serve local communities globally:

Quantico, VA (1998–2001): Continued his service under Bishop Meredith.

Parris Island, SC (2001–2004): Served Bishop Freddie Solomon at New Life Deliverance Temple (PAW).

HMX-1 & Ordination (2004–2007): Served under Apostle Jerelette Mickie at MWAVM, leading to his official ordination as a Minister in 2007.

Okinawa, Japan (2007–2010): Served as a minister at BibleWay Evangelist Church, Int. From 2008 to 2010, he was ordained as an Elder in the Lord’s Church and officially installed as a Pastor.

Yemassee, SC (2010–2019): Upon returning to the United States, the Ballenger family became an integral part of the Family Worship Center under Overseer Jeannette Harley, where Pastor Ballenger served as Assistant Pastor.

Agape Empowerment Ministries (2019–Present): Merging their shared spiritual vision, Pastor and Co-Pastor Ballenger birthed Agape Empowerment Ministries, Inc., establishing a lasting foundation for community outreach and spiritual growth.

Academic Excellence

Pastor Ballenger paired his practical leadership skills with a robust educational foundation, earning three advanced degrees:

Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management | Ashford University  

Master of Arts in Christian Studies (Emphasis in Leadership) | Grand Canyon University

Doctorate in Theology and Biblical Studies | Grace Bible College and Seminary

Civilian Leadership and Legacy

Following his honorable retirement from active duty, Pastor Ballenger translated his operational expertise into civilian public service. He served as the Director of Veterans Affairs for Jasper County, SC, before transitioning into educational logistics as a Transportation Supervisor for Greenville County Schools. He concluded his career in South Carolina education as the Director of Transportation for Spartanburg County School District Three.

Pastor Ballenger and his family now reside near Houston, Texas. Loyal, faithful, and fully dedicated to every assignment given to him by God and country, his profound impact continues to be felt by the countless lives he touched.

Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Semper Fidelis.

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