Clarence J. Belaire, Jr., 78, of Port Arthur, passed away peacefully at his home on August 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Clarence was born on June 4, 1947, in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, to Clarence J. Belaire, Sr. and Melba Gertrude (Bergeron) Belaire.
He spent most of his life in Port Arthur and was a faithful member of St. James Catholic Church. He also honorably served in the Army National Guard. Clarence was a man who found joy in the simple things of life. He loved dozing off while watching television, doting on the squirrels and birds in his yard, and spending time at the casino.
Most of all, he treasured the life he shared with his beloved wife, Martha. Married for 57 years, Clarence and Martha built a home filled with love, laughter, and faith. One of his favorite “hobbies” was happily taking orders from her, a role he fulfilled with humor and devotion throughout their life together. Clarence worked faithfully for Motiva for 43 years before retiring, where he was respected for his dedication and strong work ethic. He took great pride in being a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Martha Belaire; and his brother, Andrew Richard.
Left to cherish his memory are his sons, Sylvian “Van” Belaire and wife Angela of Groves, Wayne Belaire and wife Dianna of Port Neches, and Art Belaire and wife Khristie “Kre” of Groves; his grandchildren, Brandon Belaire and wife Sherry, Jordyn Belaire, Jonah Belaire and wife Marisa, Grace Smith and husband Taylor, Colby Johnson, and Cheyenne Belaire and fiancé Jake Duncan; and his great-grandchildren, Nolan Belaire, Sai Smith, and Sydney Duncan. Clarence is also survived by his siblings, Leona Begnaud of St. Martinville, Louisiana, Tommy Richard of Many, Louisiana, Jimmy Richard of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, and Judy Flanagan of Abbeville, Louisiana.
A visitation to honor Clarence will be held on August 22, 2025, from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Clayton Thompson Funeral Directors, 5200 W. Parkway Drive, Groves, Texas. A vigil will be held beginning at 6:00 p.m. followed by a rosary during the visitation. The funeral service to honor Clarence will be held on August 23, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.at Clayton Thompson Funeral Directors, 5200 W. Parkway Drive, Groves, Texas, followed by an entombment service at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Groves.
The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Clarence’s caregivers — Kenia LeDoux, Kelly Alban, Albina Leiva, and Delvia Castrillo and also Heart to Heart hospice for their wonderful care, kindness, and love during his final few weeks. Their compassion brought comfort and peace to Clarence and his family. Clarence will be remembered for his humor, his love of family, and the many ways he made life a little brighter for those around him. His laughter, stories, and steadfast presence will be deeply missed but forever cherished.