Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Homes

09/08/2026

Katie Louise Layton

Katie Louise Layton, 81, of Biloxi, MS passed away on Saturday September 5, 2026 at home surrounded by her family.

Katie was born on July 25, 1945 in St. Augustine, FL to Felix Landry, Jr. and Anna “Annie” Landry. She graduated from Biloxi High School and worked for AAFES exchange on Keesler AFB for 45 years. Katie loved visiting different local restaurants and visits from her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Felix Landry, Jr. and Anna “Annie” Landry; her son, Robert Kelly; and her sisters, Cynthia and Diane.

Katie’s survivors include her husband, Harry Layton; her children, John Kelly Jr. and Angela Perkins; her brother, Felix Landry, III; and her sisters, Susan and Tina.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to St. Joseph Hospice for the care they gave her.

At her request no services will be held.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Katie Louise Layton.

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09/08/2026

Lt. Col. John G. Payne, Jr., USMC Retired

Lt. Col. John G. Payne, Jr., USMC Retired, passed on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. He was 58 and a resident of Gulfport.

John started life as a service brat. His mother, Bonita K. Smith Payne, had been an Air Force nurse and he was born in Sharon, Pennsylvania on September 13, 1967. His father, John G. Payne, was an Air Force pilot and was on foreign duty in Saudi Arabia at the time. When the father returned, John, Jr., began the first of his many long travels going by car to George AFB, Victorville, California.

While his father was on active duty, John, Jr., lived in Hubbard, Ohio; Prattville, Alabama; and Oxon Hill, Maryland. Like many service brats he had to learn to meet many new people, make many new friends at new schools and still do well in his studies and new found musical talents. He began grammar school in Prattville and then moved to Oxon Hill. While there he did well in studies and was also the star quarterback for a P*e Wee football team league. His little team won the fall championship that year.

When his dad left active duty for the Air Force Reserves in 1976, John’s many talents began to bloom. The family moved back to Mississippi where John, Jr., continued to do well in school and music. Coming out of Byram High School, John received a one-year scholarship to Millsaps College, Jackson, Mississippi, then followed that with a three-year band scholarship to the University of Mississippi, Ole Miss, Band.

While he loved music, his serious major at Ole Miss was Journalism and he finished with that degree. He had a six month assignment with the then Attorney General Mike Moore. He helped develop an educational program for high school age kids which warned of the dangers of drugs that were starting to come into Mississippi. Following that he had another good job with Maris, West & Baker until the 1990 Gulf War started.

That started to remind him of his many years as a service brat. He also had an uncle who had been a Marine in WWII. John decided that was something that he wanted to do. Unable to get an immediate entry into Officer Candidate School, John took the hard route---he enlisted and went to Parris Island, South Carolina. He was slightly old for his class, but he graduated and because of high scores was assigned to communications. He would remain in that field, but at higher levels, throughout his career. He would have to wait two years before he could go through OCS, so he spent his time learning all he could about communications and the newer classified equipment that was coming on board.

After earning his officer rank, he had many interesting and high level jobs in communications. He provided special communications support for the 2003 Gulf War.

He made at least three trips to the Gulf War area including one tour in-country in Iraq. His promotions also came regularly until he retired in 2012 as a lieutenant colonel.

John, Jr., was married during his career as a Marine, but the marriage did not last. After retirement he remained a bachelor and returned to the Gulf Coast of Mississippi where many of his Payne cousins still live. He quickly gained a love for salt water fishing and often had a nice flounder for dinner.

John, Jr., was preceded in death by his mother Bonita “Bonnie” Payne.

He is survived by his father, John G. Payne, Sr., Major USAF Retired, who lives in Oxford, Mississippi. We cannot name all of the beloved cousins who will miss him in the Gulf Coast area.

Early in his life, John, Jr., adopted Mississippi as his native state. He and his father, John, Sr., (also a military veteran) often discussed being buried in the Veterans Cemetery in Biloxi. We plan for this to happen. Although, it will not happen during a Class 2 Heat Wave in September. On some cool morning or afternoon in October or November we will do our best to notify everyone again.

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09/08/2026

Richard "Rick" Riggins

Richard "Rick" Riggins, 75, of Vancleave, MS passed away Thursday, September 3, 2026.

He was born on February 6, 1951, in Shreveport, LA to Robert Lewis Riggins and Margaret Ann Riggins. He graduated from Captain Shreve High School. He served a SSGT in the United States Air Force with the title of Crew Chief and was awarded the Vietnam Service Award. He was employed with Riser Construction and worked next to his uncle’s Billy, John, and James Riser as an Iron Worker. He worked 37 years with UPS and became a Feeder Driver and was awarded the 3 million Mile Driver Award along with the Circle of Honor for 37 years of safe driving. While working with UPS, he served as their local Teamsters Union Steward for his fellow Teamsters. After retiring, he continued his title as “The Answer to ALL Things Fixed” for his son and daughter, he never turned down our request or needs all the way to the moment he left us. The title he held within our family can never be filled or replaced.

He was married to his love of his life for 57 years. He enjoyed family events, especially the birthday parties and loved going to the grandkid’s and great-grandkid’s events. He attended Mosaic Church in Ocean Springs where he loved Pastor Brandon’s messages and worship music. Loved all things automobiles and participated yearly with the Cruisin' the Coast for the last 30 years. He enjoyed riding back roads on his motorcycle, especially the Tail of the Dragon and his annual Men's motorcycle rides. He enjoyed camping with family and friends in the mountains, lakes, and National/State Parks. He loved eating at Ixtapa Mexican restaurant any time, day, or night of the week with a tall Miller Lite draft in a frosted mug.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Lewis and Margaret Ann Riggins; and brother, Russell Riggins.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Nancy Elizabeth Riggins; children, Robin (Tim) Greathouse, and Luke (Brooke) Riggins; grandchildren, David (Ashlee) Seay, Autum (Justin) Stokes, Wyatt Seay (Mary Page Bronis), Presley Riggins, Miles Riggins, Joshua (Danielle) Greathouse, and Matthew (Blanca) Greathouse; Great-Grands, Lennon, Avery, and Andee Seay, Wylder Stokes, Danica, Iris, Wesley and Marlee Greathouse; and Siblings, Linda (Don) Murphy and Patricia Dunn and many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00pm on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, Ocean Springs, MS. Friends may visit one hour prior. Interment will follow at Crestlawn Memorial Park. A reception will be held after the burial at Belle Fountain Baptist Church Fellowship Hall in Ocean Springs.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Richard “Rick” David Riggins.

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09/08/2026

George G. Garbin

George G. Garbin passed away Friday, September 4, 2026.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm with a recitation of the Rosary at 6:30 pm on Monday, September 14, 2026, at Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home on Howard Avenue in Biloxi. On Tuesday, September 15, 2026 a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Friends are invited to visit one hour prior. Interment will follow at Santa Cruz Cemetery.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of George G. Garbin.

Please check back for the full obituary.

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09/08/2026

Jack Shelby

Jack Shelby, 74, of Gulfport, Mississippi passed away on Thursday, September 3, 2026 in Gulfport, Mississippi.

He was born on October 5th, 1951 in New Orleans, Louisiana to Heath Brooke Shelby. He went to Technical School with the United States Navy while serving his country for the USN.

Jack worked as a TV Repairman with his own business "Shelby's TV Repair" in Las Vegas, NV. He enjoyed repairing electronics equipment before he retired in 2005. He also worked as an agent for NOS Communications in one of their local call centers in Las Vegas, NV.

He had a passion for studying wildlife, primarily reptiles. For many years, he would search for them in the swamps of Louisiana before moving to Las Vegas, NV, and would study them in the surrounding area deserts.

Jack was a lifelong fan of the New Orleans Saints. He also enjoyed pro wrestling, classic Western TV Shows, and retro video games as well.

He was preceded in death by his dad, Heath Brooke Shelby.

Jack is survived by his son, Andrew Shelby; daughter, Anna Banks; sisters, Koleen Underwood and Barbara Shelby Plunkett; brother, Bobby Shelby; grandson, Justice Lanoue; and nephew, Christopher Shelby.

No services will be held.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Jack Shelby.

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09/07/2026

Bridgette Jones

Bridgette Elaine Beatty Jones, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, and devoted fur-grandmother, passed away on September 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on February 27, 1968, Bridgette was a woman whose greatest joy in life was the people she loved. She loved her family more than anything in this world, and there was never any question of how deeply she cared for them. Her family was her heart, her greatest accomplishment, and her greatest source of happiness.

Bridgette shared more than 40 years of love and life with her husband, Arthur “Bud” Jones III, and they celebrated 36 years of marriage together. Their life together was built on love, friendship, laughter, memories, and an unwavering devotion to their family. She was an amazing mother to Paige Frances-Claire Jones and Arthur “AJ” Jones IV. Bridgette’s love for her children was unconditional and immeasurable. She was the kind of mother who loved fiercely, supported endlessly, and would do anything for the people she called her own.

Bridgette was also known for her vibrant personality and her ability to light up every room she entered. She was the queen of Mardi Gras, and she loved everything that sparkled, shimmered, and shined. If there was an opportunity to add a little more sparkle to life, Bridgette was there for it. Her personality was just as bright as the things she loved. Her contagious laugh and beautiful smile could fill a room, and her presence had a way of making ordinary moments feel special.

She loved to travel, make memories, celebrate life, and spend time with the people she loved. Whether surrounded by family, friends, or her beloved fur grandchildren, Bridgette found joy in the moments that brought people together. She loved wholeheartedly and lived with a spirit that was impossible to forget.

For the past two years, Bridgette fought a courageous battle against cancer. Throughout that journey, she showed an extraordinary strength, courage, and determination. Even through the hardest days, she continued to fight with the same fierce love and spirit that defined her. Her strength throughout her journey will forever be one of the many things her family admires and treasures about her.

Bridgette treasured the many relationships that made up her family. She is survived by her mother, Willie Elaine Beatty; her brother, Scott Beatty; her stepmother, Patty Beatty; her stepbrother, Clint Fox, and his wife, Sue Fox; and her beloved cousin, Stephanie Wolf. She is also survived by her father-in-law, Arthur “Art” Jones Jr., and mother-in-law, Barbara Jones; her sister-in-law, Barbara Tomson, and her husband, Bobby Tomson; and her sister-in-law, Gracie Alford, and her husband, Brian Alford. Bridgette was a loving aunt and cherished her nieces and nephews, Haley Tomson, Julianna Alford, Mckailynn Alford, Myleigh Alford, Alex Tomson, and Brayden Alford. Each held a special place in her heart, and the memories and love they shared with her will remain with them always. She also leaves behind her eight cherished fur grandchildren, who brought her endless happiness, laughter, and love. They were never “just pets” to Bridgette—they were family, and she loved them dearly.

To know Bridgette was to know a woman who loved deeply, laughed wholeheartedly, sparkled brightly, and gave her whole heart to the people around her. Her absence leaves an unimaginable emptiness, but the love she gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her.

Bridgette’s family finds comfort in knowing that her love does not end with her passing. She will continue to be found in the memories she created, the laughter she shared, the sparkle she brought into every room, and in the countless little moments when her family feels her close.

She was a devoted wife. An extraordinary mother. A loving daughter, sister, cousin, aunt, and friend. The queen of Mardi Gras. A lover of all things that sparkle. A woman whose laugh could make you laugh along with her and whose smile could brighten even the darkest day.

She was, and always will be, deeply loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.

The family will share information regarding memorial arrangements at a later date. They are grateful for the love, prayers, support, and kindness shown to Bridgette and her family throughout her journey and ask for continued understanding and privacy as they navigate this difficult time.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Bridgette Jones.

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09/07/2026

Father Martin J. Gillespie

Father Martin J. Gillespie, 68, passed away Saturday, September 5, 2026.

A visitation will be held from 4 pm to 6 pm on Monday, September 14, 2026 at St. Mary Catholic Church. A Rosary Vigil will follow at 6 pm. On Tuesday, September 15, 2026 a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am at St. Mary Catholic Church. Friends are invited to visit one hour prior. Interment will follow at Biloxi City Cemetery.

Please check back for the full obituary.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Father Martin J. Gillespie.

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09/07/2026

Today we honor the hard work, dedication and service of the men and women who help build and strengthen our communities.

Labor Day is more than just a day off — it's a tribute to the individuals who build our communities, support our families, and help create a stronger tomorrow.

From our family to yours, we hope you have a safe and meaningful Labor Day.

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1865

09/05/2026

Father Martin Gillespie, pastor of St. Mary Parish in Woolmarket, died unexpectedly this morning. Father Gillespie served as a priest of the Diocese of Biloxi for 26 years. We give thanks to God for his priestly ministry. Please keep the Gillespie family and the St. Mary Parish family in your prayers.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

May the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Amen

Funeral arrangements will be announced once finalized.

09/04/2026

Thomas Dean Guyer Sr.

Thomas Dean Guyer Sr, age 81, of D'Iberville, Mississippi, passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026. He was born on August 15, 1945 in Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania, to Carl Guyer and June Swab.

Thomas worked for Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula as a welder. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and was honorably discharged.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Wayne Guyer.

Those left to cherish his memory include his companion, Jasmelita Guyer; his son, Thomas Guyer, Jr.; and his beloved miniature Chihuahua, Jake.

Private services will be held by the family.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Thomas Dean Guyer.

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