Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Homes

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Homes As a sixth generation owned funeral home, we are compassionate caretakers dedicated to honoring your loved ones' legacies with dignity and respect.

We provide personalized services to support families during difficult times with professionalism. SEVEN CONVENIENT FUNERAL HOME LOCATIONS
15452 O'Neal Rd, Gulfport - 228-831-2322
1726 15th St., Gulfport - 228-865-0090
2511 Pass Rd., Biloxi - 228-388-1811
675 Howard Ave., Biloxi - 228-374-5650
911 Porter Ave., Ocean Springs - 228-875-1266
4901 Jim Ramsay Rd., Vancleave - 228-826-4511
110 Neicase Avenue, Bay St. Louis
228-467-9031

THREE CEMETERIES
Crestlawn Memorial Park - 411 Bienville Blvd., Ocean Springs - 228-875-5522
D'Iberville Memorial Park - 11401 Gorenflo Rd., D'Iberville - 228-392-4127
Gulf Coast Memorial Cemetery & Mausoleum
2177 Longfellow Road, Bay St. Louis
228-467-3314


MISSISSIPPI'S FIRST CREMATORY -
Call 228-374-5650 for more information. Everyone's life is worthy of celebration. We touch one another's lives in hundreds of ways - and it's those connections which bring satisfaction and even joy. There are endless ways to come together to honor and celebrate the life of someone dear. We've listened to the concerns of the families in our area, and responded by offering them the highest quality, yet affordable options. Each of our locations give families dedicated spaces to celebrate lives, and our crematory provides trusted cremation services.

Jacquelyn "Jackie" DrakeJacquelyn "Jackie" Ann Spielman Drake, age 91, died on September 11, 2025, at Brookdale Senior L...
09/14/2025

Jacquelyn "Jackie" Drake

Jacquelyn "Jackie" Ann Spielman Drake, age 91, died on September 11, 2025, at Brookdale Senior Living in Biloxi MS.

She was born November 15, 1933, in Freeport IL to Clarence Spielman and Ethyl Moser. Jackie attended Freeport High School and then the University of IL, graduating with a degree in Pre Med. After a few short-term jobs in Chicago, she became a stewardess for Delta Airlines in the mid-1950's.

Jackie was based in New Orleans, where she met and married her soulmate, Kirk Drake, in 1958. They were married for 62 years until Kirk’s death in 2020,

Their plan to stay in New Orleans was short lived as Kirk was transferred to Fresno, CA where their son, Kirk Jr., was born. Shortly after that, they moved to Columbus, OH. Their daughter, Darren, was born there in 1960. They then moved to Columbia, MS in 1966. Finally, in 1978 they made their way back to the New Orleans area and settled in Metairie. By then both kids were out of high school, and it was traveling time!

Over the next 25 years or so, they traveled the world, visiting at least 21 countries and almost all 50 states. Her favorite state had to be Hawai'i, where they went for their anniversary each year for at least 10 years. Jackie loved to cook and could put a meal together just by using any ingredients already in the refrigerator! She also loved gardening and arranging flowers. In the early 1970’s, she was even state president of the Mississippi Garden Clubs.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Kirk Drake Sr.; father, Clarence Spielman; mother, Ethyl Moser; brothers, Dean Spielman and Dennis Spielman; and daughter, Darren Drake Hathorn.

Survivors include her son, Kirk Drake Jr. (Theresa); son in law, Steve Hathorn; and grandchildren, Kyle Drake, David Drake, Phoebe (Daniel) Hathorn Abernathy.

Private services will be held later. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Jackie’s honor to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America https://alzfdn.org/

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Jacquelyn "Jackie" Ann Spielman Drake.

View Jacquelyn "Jackie" Drake's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Cheryl Fountain JohnsonCheryl Louise Johnson ran into the arms of her Lord on the morning of September 12, 2025.She was ...
09/14/2025

Cheryl Fountain Johnson

Cheryl Louise Johnson ran into the arms of her Lord on the morning of September 12, 2025.

She was born on June 6, 1955, to Henry and Shirley Fountain. From the beginning, she was surrounded by family - a big, lively family who shaped her heart and spirit. She was the second of seven children and grew up in a home filled with love, alongside her siblings, Ethel (Henderson), Christine (Parker), Twila (Allen), Helen (White), Henry, and Hilliard.

Cheryl’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother to Lauren Germany (Brad DePriest) and Joel Germany, who love her beyond measure. She also adored her “granddog,” Archie, and “grandkitty,” Tia.

Cheryl was a sister-in-love to Don Henderson, Brad Parker, Tom Baxivanos, Jackie Fountain, and Nancy Germany.

She was a proud and loving aunt to Karen Lewis (Doug), Michael Jones (Jaylee White and Sebastian), Neil Parker (Kelly Winborn), Henry Allen (Savannah, Beau, Wyatt, and Addalynn), Shannon Hackney (Ron, Aiden, Addison, Ace, and Ava), Jamie Richards (Jacob, Lilah, and Cooper), Adam Fountain (Everett), Amber Stratton (Steven), Jonathan Fountain, and Nathan Germany (Mackenzye).

Awaiting her arrival in heaven were her parents; her husband, Arland; her former husband and the father of Lauren and Joel, Robert Germany; and her grandparents, Hilliard and Ethel Slater and Joe and Mae Fountain.

Cheryl had a beautiful voice that could fill a room and soothe a soul. She loved sharing her gift of music - whether singing with the Ocean Springs Chorale, her church choir, or simply around the house. Music wasn’t just something Cheryl did; it was something she gave; a way she touched lives.

Her deep faith was the steady thread woven through her life. Cheryl first came to know the Lord at Belle Fountain Baptist Church and later found a church home at First Baptist of Ocean Springs, where she cherished her Women’s Group and Choir Family.

She had a gift for connection. Cheryl never met a stranger and had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and loved.

Her high school friendships from Ocean Springs High, Class of 1973, lasted a lifetime. Whether planning reunions or enjoying a Saturday brunch with the “Breakfast Bunch,” she found joy in bringing people together.

Cheryl worked hard and gave her best to every task. She was proud to be a legacy employee of Blossman Gas, following in her father’s footsteps, and later retired from the City of Valdosta.

Beyond her work, Cheryl was known for her generosity. In retirement, she volunteered with the auxiliaries of Ocean Springs Hospital and Keesler Medical Center, always finding ways to give back.

Cheryl was also a two-time cancer warrior. She defeated breast cancer earlier in life and later faced lung cancer with the same steadfast courage. She met each day with determination and tenacity - never once complaining, never asking “why.” Her only prayer was that God would use her testimony for His glory.

Those who loved her will remember her radiant smile, her big heart, her humor, and the way she lived out her faith through kindness. She made life brighter simply by being herself.

Cheryl’s legacy is one of love - for her family, her friends, her community, and her Lord. And though she will be deeply missed, her song will go on in every life she touched.

Lauren and Joel would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Singing River Cancer Center for their exceptional care and compassion. A special thank you goes to Dr. Greenfield and his dedicated team for their guidance and support throughout this journey. The family is also grateful to Dr. Persing and his staff, whose steadfast encouragement allowed Cheryl to keep moving forward.

The family is especially thankful to the staff of Hospice of Light, who gave Cheryl the gift of a peaceful transition.

To the members of Belle Fountain Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, and Northwood Church - the family was exceedingly blessed by your love, prayers, and unwavering support.

In lieu of flowers, Cheryl wished for her family and friends to consider a donation to Tired Dog Rescue, an organization close to her heart and reflective of her tender spirit.

A memorial service will be held in Cheryl’s honor at First Baptist Church, Ocean Springs on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 1:00 p.m.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Cheryl Louise Johnson.

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Don E. Rainey, Jr.Don E. Rainey, Jr., 83, of Perkinston, MS passed away Thursday, September 11, 2025.He was born in Bilo...
09/14/2025

Don E. Rainey, Jr.

Don E. Rainey, Jr., 83, of Perkinston, MS passed away Thursday, September 11, 2025.

He was born in Biloxi, MS to Don Rainey, Sr. and Mary Drieling Rainey Flickner. Don was a butcher with Winn Dixie, A&P, and Delchamps. Later in life, he was self-employed in construction until retiring. Don loved the outdoors. When he wasn’t hunting or fishing, you could always find him with his family. He loved going to see his grandchildren and spending time with them when they came down for the summers.

Don is preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Jud Rainey, Mary Rainey, and Susan Smith; and nephew, Christopher Smith.

Survivors include his wife of 43 years, Leila Rainey; children, Shelley (Josh) Smith, Donny Rainey, Jessica Rainey, Alicia Rainey, and Rowdy Rainey; grandchildren, Kaelyn, Brooke, Ashlin, and Luca; uncle, Doug Drieling; brother-in-law, Mike Smith; and nephews, Brandon and Kevin.

Per Don’s request there will be no service. The family will plan a memorial service at a later date. A special thank you to Aundrea for taking the best care of Don and us and to Amanda, Vital Caring team (Tracy, Amber, Natasha, Lillie, Keith). If you want to remember Don, go fishing or hunting or better yet take a child or help someone in need.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Don E. Rainey, Jr.

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Alan Francis BoneyAlan Boney of D’Iberville, MS, a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather, passed awa...
09/14/2025

Alan Francis Boney

Alan Boney of D’Iberville, MS, a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather, passed away surrounded by his loving family on September 8, 2025, at the age of 75.

Born on October 14, 1949, in Biloxi, MS, to the late Vernon and Minnie Boney, he was a true outdoorsman at heart. Alan developed a deep love for the outdoors, and most of all hunting, from a young age. His life was a testament of hard work, deep family bonds, and a love for the simple joys that made every day meaningful. He was a man of immense humor and wisdom, cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. For decades, his favorite place was his deer stand or his cabin, where he spent countless hours hunting with his son, grandson, and many friends creating lasting memories and some traditions in the process. He will be remembered for his kind heart, his steady presence, generosity, and the joy he brought to those around him.

Alan was a true pillar of the D’Iberville community, dedicating countless hours to coaching Little League, Babe Ruth baseball, and P*e Wee football. As President of both the D’Iberville Little League and P*e Wee Football League, he poured his heart into mentoring generations of young athletes, teaching them not just how to play, but how to carry themselves with integrity, teamwork, and respect. To many, he was more than a coach, he was a mentor, a role model, and a second father. His passion for the game and his love for the kids he coached built a legacy that will live on in the lives of all who had the privilege of playing for him.

After graduating from D’Iberville High School in 1967, Alan began his dedicated career at Ingalls Shipbuilding. He later served the community for many years with the City of Biloxi before joining what would become Cable One, where he remained for three decades until his retirement. Through the company's many transitions and name changes, Alan's loyalty and dedication were unwavering, a testament to his steadfast character.

Alan was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Minnie Boney; and his granddaughter, Jessica Lorin Jordan.

Alan's family was his world. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Toni Anglado Boney, his partner in all things and his soulmate. He will be deeply missed by his children, Tanya (Lyle) Bourque, and Brent (Cilya) Boney; and his grandchildren, Trey Bourque, Margaret (Maggie) Bourque, and Tanner Boney, who were the light of his life. He also leaves behind his loving sister, Nona McGrevey, and a host of extended family and friends.

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in D'Iberville, MS, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 p.m. Interment will take place at Swetman Cemetery in D'Iberville, MS, where Alan will be laid to rest near his loving parents and granddaughter.

We find comfort in knowing that Alan’s legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories will cherish forever.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Alan Boney.

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Eric Arnold LightnerEric Arnold Lightner, age 80, resided in the City of D'Iberville died peacefully at home on Septembe...
09/12/2025

Eric Arnold Lightner

Eric Arnold Lightner, age 80, resided in the City of D'Iberville died peacefully at home on September 8, 2025.

He was born on April 29, 1944, in Biloxi, Mississippi, and was a lifelong resident of D'Iberville — formerly known as North Biloxi. He graduated from D'Iberville High School and went on to build a life rooted in hard work, community service, and love for his family.

Eric was a welder by trade. In the early years of his career, he traveled across the country honing his craft before eventually settling at Ingalls Shipbuilding, where he worked until his retirement. Beyond welding, Eric was also involved in the metal scrapping industry and supplemented his income — and fed his adventurous spirit — by sh*****ng and crabbing along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and into Louisiana aboard his boat, which he affectionately named Hope Alexis.

Dedicated to his community, Eric served as a Planning Commissioner for the City of D'Iberville for more than 28 years. He approached this role with the same integrity and generosity that defined every area of his life.

Although he enjoyed many things, Eric's favorite pastimes included fishing, playing video keno, watching Fox News, and sharing meals with friends and family. A proud and patriotic American, he flew the American flag every day and always took care to bring it down before a storm — a small but meaningful gesture that reflected the deep respect he had for his country and the symbol of its freedom.

Eric never met a stranger. He had a gift for making friends wherever he went and was known for opening his home and heart to others. During the holidays, he often invited people without family nearby to join his celebrations, believing that everyone deserved to feel a sense of belonging. Selfless in every way, he was always ready to lend a helping hand or offer a listening ear.

Above all, Eric’s greatest devotion was to his beloved wife, Judy. She was his heart, his partner, and his priority — and he would have walked through fire to care for and protect her. As he went to his final home, Eric did so with the peace of knowing that his love and legacy will continue to be honored by the family and friends who cherished him.

Eric is predeceased by his parents, Elgin C. Lightner and Clarice Trocesshett Lightner, Brothers, David Lightner, Robert "Bobby" Lightner, Kevin Lightner, Sister, Elizabeth Lightner, and daughter, Adrianne Lightner Platt, and furry, pampered companion of many years his dog, Sampson.

He is survived by his wife, Judy J. Lightner, son, Scott (Angie) Lightner, Sisters, Mary F. McMahan, Christine Cabaniss, Janice Johnson, and Ida Wilhelm, 4 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and a grand dog named, Precious, who lived in his home as a furry companion to his wife Judy. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews, too numerous to name, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to everyone who offered support during Eric’s prolonged illness. Whether through visits, phone calls, meals, help with cooking and cleaning, or any other act of kindness, your generosity made a profound difference. Each gesture played a vital role in helping Eric and Judy fulfill his final wish — to pass peacefully in the sanctuary he lovingly called home. We offer our heartfelt condolences to his closest unnamed friends, whose lives were deeply touched by Eric's companionship — a presence that now leaves a quiet space in their hearts.

Lastly, the family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the kindness and compassion shown by Hospice of Light and Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home.

A Celebration of Life with friends and family will be held at a later date.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Eric Arnold Lightner.

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Guy Arthur GarrigaGuy Arthur Garriga, 75, of Biloxi, MS passed away on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 in Biloxi.A Memoria...
09/12/2025

Guy Arthur Garriga

Guy Arthur Garriga, 75, of Biloxi, MS passed away on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 in Biloxi.

A Memorial Service will be held at Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home on Howard Avenue in Biloxi on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 6:00 pm. Friends may visit from 4:00 pm until service time.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Guy Arthur Garriga.

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Betty Jean BakerIt is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Betty Jean Baker, who left us on September 7...
09/11/2025

Betty Jean Baker

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Betty Jean Baker, who left us on September 7, 2025, at the age of 84. Born on February 24, 1941, in Pulaski, Tennessee, Betty lived a life filled with love, resilience, and cherished memories.

Betty was the beloved daughter of Edward Rassie Reeves and Ruby Mae Grammar. She was the heart of her family, a nurturing sister, and a devoted wife. Betty's early life was shaped by her close-knit family, including her brothers, Charles and Billy Reeves, and her sister, Dorothy Smith, all of whom she loved dearly and who preceded her in death.

In 1997, Betty married the love of her life, James M. Baker. Their bond was one of deep affection and mutual respect, and although James passed away in September 2002, his memory lived on in Betty's heart throughout her life.

Betty was a proud mother to her two sons, Jonathan (Lori) Bingham and Jason (Jessica) Kelly, who were her pride and joy. She took immense pleasure in being a Nana; her grandsons, Patrick Bingham and Cayson Kelly, and her fur baby, Madi were a constant source of happiness for her. Betty’s love for her family was unconditional, and she poured her heart into every moment spent with them.

She spent her later years in Biloxi, Mississippi, where she created a warm and welcoming home filled with laughter, love, and countless family gatherings. Betty was known for her kindness, her infectious smile, and her unyielding spirit. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was cooking, crafts, or sharing stories around the dinner table.

Betty's legacy of love and strength will continue to resonate through her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her presence illuminated the lives of those around her, and her memory will forever be cherished.

A celebration of Betty's life will be held at Harpeth Hills Memorial Gardens. We invite all who knew and loved her to join us in honoring this remarkable woman whose spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

In place of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in Betty’s name to a charity of your choice, reflecting her generous spirit and love for others.

Betty Jean Baker will be missed dearly, but her love and the memories she created will forever remain a guiding light in our lives.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Betty Jean Baker. Harpeth Hills Funeral Home in Nashville, TN is in charge of arrangements.

View Betty Jean Baker's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Gary Paul Kingsland Sr.Gary Paul Kingsland, Age 69, formerly of Pulaski NY, “fondly known as the King” and “Pop”, age 69...
09/11/2025

Gary Paul Kingsland Sr.

Gary Paul Kingsland, Age 69, formerly of Pulaski NY, “fondly known as the King” and “Pop”, age 69, passed away suddenly at his second home in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Gary was born in Cold Spring, NY. He graduated from Pulaski High School in Pulaski, NY in 1974 where he was an outstanding athlete. Gary moved to Las Vegas, Nevada in 1979. He had a long career in the casino industry, working at The Castaways, Silver Slipper and The Wynn. He moved to Biloxi when gaming started in 1993. Gary worked for Bally’s New Orleans until the grand opening of the Beau Rivage in Biloxi, MS.

Gary and his wife, Claire Higginbotham Kingsland, were married for 40 years. Together, they had four children and two grandchildren. Gary is survived by his wife, Claire; sons Jeremiah of Biloxi, MS, Gary Jr. and Jonathan of Reno, NV; daughters Maren and AvaRae of Biloxi, MS; sisters Cynthia (Scot) Nicholson and Debra Kingsland of Clermont, FL; grandson Gage Shemper of Biloxi, MS; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cleveland G. Kingsland Sr. and Margaret C. Kingsland, and a brother, Cleveland G. Kingsland Jr.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Biloxi MS, October 18, 2025. All who knew and loved Gary are invited to join the family to celebrate his life. Further details will be shared soon.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Gary Paul Kingsland Sr.

View Gary Paul Kingsland Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Garrett Nathan BryanGarrett "Nathan" Bryan, age 47, of Biloxi, MS passed away on Sunday, September 7, 2025. Nathan was a...
09/10/2025

Garrett Nathan Bryan

Garrett "Nathan" Bryan, age 47, of Biloxi, MS passed away on Sunday, September 7, 2025.

Nathan was a 1996 graduate of St. Martin High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he served four years.

Nathan is preceded in death by his father, Dolton Gary Bryan. Survivors include his son, Colton Garrett Bryan; mother, Kathy Bryan; sister, Jennifer Lofland; niece, Lindsay Albert; and by his two nephews, Michael Krueger and Lance Bowman.

Pray for Nathan. His journey in the afterlife is just beginning.

Family and friends are invited to gather from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, Howard Avenue in Biloxi.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Garrett "Nathan" Bryan.

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George "G.B." Dubaz, Jr., USN retiredGeorge “G.B.” Dubaz, Jr., USN retired, age 74, of Central Florida, passed away peac...
09/10/2025

George "G.B." Dubaz, Jr., USN retired

George “G.B.” Dubaz, Jr., USN retired, age 74, of Central Florida, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.

A native of Biloxi, MS, G.B. grew up attending St. John Catholic Church and Biloxi Public Schools, graduating from Biloxi High School in 1969. With a calling to help others, he worked for Gulf Ambulance in Biloxi and later as a hospital orderly at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, beginning his lifelong career in the emergency medical field.

In 1981, G.B. joined the U.S. Navy and proudly served as a Navy Corpsman. After a short break, during which he worked as an EMT paramedic on Gulf oil rigs, he rejoined the Navy and went on to serve faithfully for 27 years. He retired as a Senior Chief Petty Officer and was a proud veteran of both Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

Life after the Navy brought hardship when G.B. endured the loss of his beloved wife, Janice Marie Lizana Dubaz, but found the strength to move forward.

Adventurous, G.B. traveled widely and eventually made his home in New Orleans, where he worked as a tour guide and became a beloved fixture on Frenchmen Street. Known fondly as the “Tambourine Man,” he brought joy to countless strangers with his music and stories. These experiences allowed him to connect with people from all walks of life. Later, he moved to the Orlando area to be closer to his family, cherishing time with his grandchildren and reliving memories with them at Walt Disney World.

He was a life member of the Slavic Benevolent Association, and will be remembered as a man of loyalty, humor, resilience, and spirit.

G.B. was preceded in death by his wife, Janice; his father, George B. Dubaz, Sr.; and his mother, Fern Davidson O’Neal.

He is survived by his children, Stephanie Davidson (Kevin), Elizabeth Dubaz and Adam Dubaz (Megan); his grandchildren, Izabella, Izaiah, Olivia, and Addison; and his brothers, Stephen J. Dubaz, Brian Dubaz (Rose Marie), Robert C. Dubaz (Betty Sue), and Gary A. Dubaz (Lee Ann).

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the Howard Avenue Chapel of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home in Biloxi. Friends may visit beginning at 10:00 a.m. G.B. will be laid to rest with full U.S. Navy honors at Biloxi National Cemetery.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of G.B. Dubaz, Jr.

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Koke Thomas "Tom" Eason, Jr.Koke Thomas “Tom” Eason, Jr., age 84, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 8, 2025, i...
09/10/2025

Koke Thomas "Tom" Eason, Jr.

Koke Thomas “Tom” Eason, Jr., age 84, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 8, 2025, in Bremen, Georgia.

Tom was born on February 20, 1941, in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. He graduated from Gulfport High School in Gulfport, Mississippi and proudly served in the U.S. Navy for two years aboard the USS Truckee before attending Louisiana State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture.

A talented landscape architect, Tom began his career in St. Petersburg and Tampa, Florida, where he contributed to the design of Busch Gardens and Bok Tower Gardens. He later became Chief of Design and Construction for the City of Atlanta Parks Department, where his work shaped Atlanta’s Central City Park, the Atlanta Zoo, and numerous other parks across the city.

After returning to Mississippi, Tom dedicated many years to education at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Jackson County Campus, where he taught Drafting and CAD and later served as Dean of Business Services.

Beyond his professional achievements, Tom had a deep love for adventure and the outdoors. He enjoyed flying, boating, fishing, golfing, and traveling. He was also deeply committed to the Gulf Coast Chapter of Children’s International Summer Villages (CISV), where he helped organize and supervise youth summer camps in the U.S. and Europe and served on the national board.

Tom is survived by his sister, Carolyn Eason Peterman; half-sister, Ellen (John) Chauvin; half-brother, Wayne (Tammy) Eason; daughters, Robin (Brian) Campbell and Heather (Troy) Fetterley; their mother, Marla Eason; and five beloved grandchildren, Julia (Connor Gibbs) Campbell, Madeline Campbell, Nathan Campbell, Ethan Fetterley, and Sean Fetterley.

Tom’s family would like to extend heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Haralson Nursing and Rehabilitation and Sacred Journey Hospice.

His legacy lives on in the landscapes he designed, the students he inspired, and the family and friends who loved him.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 1726 15th Street, Gulfport, MS. Friends may visit one-hour prior to service. Interment will follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport, is honored to serve the family of Koke Eason, Jr.

View Koke Thomas Eason, Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Michael C. "Mike" AeschlimanMichael C. “Mike” Aeschliman, age 71, of Gulfport, passed away on Thursday, September 4, 202...
09/10/2025

Michael C. "Mike" Aeschliman

Michael C. “Mike” Aeschliman, age 71, of Gulfport, passed away on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at USA Hospital in Mobile, AL.

Mike was born on December 22, 1953, in Raleigh, NC, to Barbara “Bobbie” and Dave Davis. He was a longtime resident of the coast. He attended school in NC, which included some college, and later joined the U.S. Navy. Mike served 4 years in the Navy and another 40 years as a DOD civilian as a mechanic at Keesler Air Force Base and Orange Grove Utilities. He enjoyed yard work, gardening, and sports.

Mike was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Davis; biological father, Eugene Aeschliman; and sister, Kathy Davis.

Survivors include his wife, Nancy Abel Aeschliman; 1 daughter, Tonya Baker; 2 sons, Christopher Aeschliman and James Williams; 2 granddaughters, Danielle and Abigail; 5 great-grandchildren; and 3 siblings, Debbie Wilder, Joey Davis, and Kathy Davis.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Biloxi National Cemetery, with U.S. Navy honors. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport is honored to serve the family of Michael Aeschliman.

View Michael C. "Mike" Aeschliman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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675 Howard Avenue
Biloxi, MS
39530

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