Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Homes

12/01/2025

Zelma Jackson Gollott

Zelma Jackson Gollott, age 87, of Biloxi, MS passed away on Sunday, November 30, 2025.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, in Biloxi, at 11:00 a.m. Friends are invited to visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. Entombment to follow at Southern Memorial Park.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral home is honored to serve the family of Zelma Gollott.

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11/30/2025

Matthew Thomas McElhaney (Matt)

Matthew Thomas McElhaney (Matt), age 43, passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025.

Matt was a longtime resident of Pascagoula, Mississippi, and was currently residing in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. He was a 2001 graduate of Pascagoula High School. He attended Meridian Community College, where he played tennis on full scholarship and was coached by his long-term mentor, Wanda McPhail, who had a lasting influence on his life. Matt then continued with his higher education at the University of Mississippi with a degree in Criminal Justice.

Matt was preceded in death by his grandparents, Thomas LeRoy “Roy” and Mary Margaret Capps Williams, Michael and Virginia McElhaney, and his Uncle Rick Williams.

Survivors include the love of his life, Kelly McLain McElhaney; three children, Aaron Lee McElhaney (Erin Miller), Capps Lee McElhaney, and Gryder James Allen (Stepson); parents, Michael James McElhaney, Jr., and Diane Williams McElhaney; and his siblings, Michael James McElhaney III, Melissa Schnoor (Sonny Landsiedel and Ryan Schnoor former husband). Matt had many nephews and nieces that held a very special bond with him: Haidyn McElhaney, Mary Elizabeth McElhaney, Jack Thomas Schnoor, Luke Schnoor, Wyatt Schnoor, Mary Ryan Schnoor, Kennedy Butler and Davis Butler. He also adored his uncles, aunts, many cousins, and extended family members. Matt is also survived by his beloved dog Macs who was often by his side at the office and greeted customers with the same warmth Matt did.

Matt cherished his many lifelong friendships and was faithful about reaching out for birthdays and special occasions, even if his timing was a day early or day late. He always put others before himself and was the life of every party he attended. Matt knew he had one short life to live, and he lived it to the fullest - approaching each day with passion, generosity, and enthusiasm that was contagious to all who knew him.

When Matt wasn’t running his business, his life revolved around his children and their shared love of sports. As a proud father the name of his insurance agency holds special meaning. MAC’s Coastal Insurance is named after his kids’ initials and is also a nod to his dad, who goes by the nickname “Mac.”

Community involvement is another cornerstone of his life and business. He regularly coached children’s sports teams and never said no to a community sponsorship. For Matt it was always about leaving a legacy not just for his family but for the community he loved.

Service arrangements will be shared with family & friends once arrangements are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to The Immune Deficiency Foundation at www.primaryimmune.org

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Matthew Thomas McElhaney (Matt).

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11/29/2025

Donald Christopher Gonzalez, Sr.

Donald Christopher Gonzalez, Sr., age 63, born on November 25, 1961, in New Orleans, LA, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, November 19, 2025.

Donald built a career as a skilled fence installer, a job he took great pride in and truly loved for more than twenty years. His work reflected his character, strong and dependable. Donald loved to spend his free time either on the river, shooting a game of pool, or at a gathering with all his friends and family.

Donald was preceded in death by his mother, Billie L. Ladnier; fathers, Matthew E. Ladnier II and Jose J. Gonzalez; grandparents, Henry and Virgie Fernandez; and grandson, Bayley Christopher Hartney; and brothers Ricky E. Fernandez and Kippy A. Ladnier, Sr.

Donald leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Jewell E. Gonzalez and children, Kristina (Justin) McKinley, LaChrishna (Kevin) Barber, Donald C. Gonzalez, Jr., and Jason Penton; as well as his companion, Deanna Mares and children, Christina Gentry, Chelsey Mares, and Caleb Mares. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Anthony Hartney II, Cayden Hartney, Landyn Hartney, Jaiden Atwater, Jacobi McKinley, Olivia Barber, Anna Marie Barber, Eijah Barber, Samuel Barber, Clarity Mae Barber, Jadon Penton, and Kylie Delaneuville; brothers, Matthew “Buddy” E. (Tracy) Ladnier III, and Quentin Ladnier; and sisters, Marissa Atwell, Virgie Ladnier Saucier, Tammy (Earl) Rocco, Mona Lisa (Vic) Jones, and Angelique “Angie” (Alan) Byrd. Donald will also be remembered by a very dear friend, who was like a brother to him, Shannon Sweany and family, as well as Michael Keenum and family, and many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and close friends.

Donald leaves behind a legacy of hard work, love, and unforgettable memories. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The Howard Avenue Chapel of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Donald Christopher Gonzalez, Sr.

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11/29/2025

Timothy L. Smith

Timothy L. Smith, age 49, of Biloxi, MS passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025 at Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, Howard Avenue in Biloxi, at 11:30 a.m. Friends are invited to visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral home is honored to serve the family of Timothy L. Smith.

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11/28/2025

Keith Richard Campbell

Keith Richard Campbell, age 77, of Biloxi, Mississippi, passed away peacefully at his home on November 19, 2025. Keith was born on September 26, 1948, in Anoka, Minnesota, and had made Biloxi his home for more than 50 years.

Keith graduated from high school in Grand Forks, North Dakota. He began his career in finance but soon found his true calling at Jitney Jungle and Delchamps in the meat market industry, where he worked for over 30 years in the grocery business. He also spent 10 years working as a car-dealer’s service department employee.

In May of 1967, Keith was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served honorably for two years and was a proud Vietnam-era veteran.

Keith married the love of his life, Joyce, on February 11, 1967, in C**n Rapids, Minnesota. Keith enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, especially fishing and hunting.

Keith was preceded in death by his father, Harold Campbell; and his son, Jimmy Campbell.

He is survived by his wife, Joyce Campbell of Biloxi; his children, Chris Campbell, Amy Campbell, and Stephanie Campbell; and his beloved grandchildren, Riley and Owen Hester, and Lawson, Parker, and Hadin Campbell. He is also survived by his mother, Marilyn Campbell Richter of Montgomery, Minnesota; and by his siblings, Kevin and Joni Campbell of C**n Rapids, Minnesota.

A visitation will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025 at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home on Pass Road in Biloxi from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. A graveside service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Biloxi National Cemetery.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Keith Richard Campbell.

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11/28/2025

John Michael Davis

John Michael Davis passed away on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the age of 78, in Gulfport, MS.

To remember Michael’s life is to write about a person from years ago. A lifelong native of Mississippi, his time was once filled with music, chess, books, fishing and family. He was brilliant, inquisitive and born with a natural ability to comprehend complex mathematical equations. He loved to learn challenging new things and would dive headfirst into whatever activity caught his attention. He was a doting uncle who made school pickups, trips to the bookstore and music lessons an adventure. He loved to talk about interesting books he read about chess masters and violin virtuosos and shared his humor with those around him. He will be remembered as he was then.

There will be a graveside service with military honors on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at Biloxi National Cemetery.

Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport, is honored to serve the family of John Michael Davis.

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11/27/2025

We are eternally grateful for the family’s we are permitted to help celebrate their loved one’s lives. As we commemorate our 160th year of service to the Mississippi Gulf Coast……… we give Thanks to you along with wishing you and yours all the very best.

11/26/2025

Ronald "Ron" Raymond Rivard Sr.

Ronald “Ron” Rivard Sr., age 79, of Ocean Springs passed away at home on Tuesday, November 25, 2025.

Born on January 15, 1946, in Framingham, Massachusetts to Arthur and Bertha Rivard. Ron attended high school in Fort Meyers graduating in 1966. After high school Ron joined the United States Air Force and served his country in Vietnam. Ron was an Electrical Environmentalist as a Hurricane Hunter out of Keesler Air Force Base for 33 years.

He enjoyed going out boating, fishing, and other water sports. Ron served his community as a member of the VFW in Ocean Springs, a volunteer fire department in Ocean Springs, and a member of the Elks Lodge in Ocean Springs.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Bertha Rivard.

He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Sharon Rivard; daughter, Rondella Rivard; son, Ronald Rivard JR. (Kim), granddaughter, Holly Williams; great granddaughter, Zailey Bussard; and beloved dog, Peanut.

Funeral service will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 12:30 p.m. at Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home on Porter Avenue in Ocean Springs. Friends may visit from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Interment will follow at Biloxi National Cemetery. A reception will be held afterward at the VFW # 5699, on VFW Road in Ocean Springs.

Please order flowers from Flowers by Karen in Ocean Springs. Also, please consider donating to VFW #5699 in Ocean Springs.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Ronald "Ron" Raymond Rivard Sr.

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11/26/2025

Gratia Simmons Dresback

Gratia Simmons Dresback, age 90, of Gulfport, passed away on Sunday, November 23, 2025.

Gratia was born on January 11, 1935, in Columbia, MS. The family moved to Magnolia when she was four, to Brookhaven at age eleven, and back to Magnolia when she was fifteen. Gratia claimed Magnolia as her Hometown. The family moved to New Orleans, LA, in 1952, her senior year, and she graduated from McDonough High in 1953. The family later moved to the Gulf Coast where she met and married Verle Dean Dresback.

Gratia embraced life to the fullest until she got sick. She loved people, music, and especially dancing. Gratia joined the Krewe of Gemini in 1975 and remained a member for life. She was Queen Leda in 1989 and reigned over the first Gemini night parade. Gratia joined the American Legion Auxiliary in 1986 and was devoted to the Veterans programs, serving as the VA&R program Chairman for over twenty years. She was most proud of starting the Christmas Gift Shop at the Biloxi VA Hospital after Katrina destroyed the Gulfport Hospital. Gratia was chosen Unit Member of the Year for Unit 119 in 1997and was chosen as the Unit Member of the Year for the State of Mississippi that year and went to the National Convention to represent Mississippi. She was also chosen to be Queen Liberte for the Mardi Gras Ball that same year. Gratia became a member of the B.P.O.E. Lodge 978 in 1997 and was chosen to be Queen Fidelity in 2005.

Gratia loved Mardi Gras, especially the costumes, the Balls, and the camaraderie. She was the Ball Captain for the Krewe of Gemini five times, the Legion Auxiliary five times, and the Elks Lodge #978 once. She loved every minute of it. Gratia did not like to fly but loved cruises. She went on a total of thirteen cruises.

Gratia was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Verle Dean Dresback; parents, Thomas Bowers Simmons and Mamie Lucille Jones Simmons; and brother, Lyman Jerrell “Jerry” Simmons.

She is survived by her two sons, Kelly Dresback (Glenda) and Kevin Dresback; two granddaughters; and two great-granddaughters.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Greg Sullivan and Lexi at Hearts & Home. Gratia loved it there and your staff took such good care of her.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 1726 15th Street, Gulfport. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Southern Memorial Park. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport is honored to serve the family of Gratia Simmons Dresback.

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11/25/2025

Spencer Frederick Smith

Battle Bulletin: Reveille for the Last Time

Spencer Frederick Smith, 62, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Though his final months were filled with more battles than most will ever face, he met every challenge with the same grit, humor, and stubborn determination that defined his entire life.

Born on Friday, September 13, 1963, Spencer grew into a man who lived boldly and fearlessly. He spent his formative years as an Air Force brat, traveling the world and collecting adventures as effortlessly as other children collected toys. From running through the jungles of Okinawa to racing through the halls of the Air Force Academy, he was always in his element. He was born for adventure, and he lived his entire life that way.

Graduating from Biloxi High School in 1981, he followed in so many of his family members’ footsteps and joined the United States Air Force. During his service, he was stationed at RAF Greenham Common, Great Britain’s only American nuclear base in 1985, an experience that gave him stories he told for decades and pride he carried for life.

After returning home, he spent years behind the wheel of a race car, embracing his need for speed and fueling his passion as a mechanic, avid gearhead, and lifelong car enthusiast. There wasn’t an engine he wouldn’t tinker with, a motor he couldn’t revive, or a mechanical mystery he wasn’t determined to solve.

At age 50, he reinvented himself in true “Spencer fashion,” switching careers to become a crane operator for Tindall Concrete. Through hard work and relentless determination, he worked his way up to engineer, proving that it’s never too late to take on a new challenge, and absolutely never too late to master it.

He was the kind of man who could fix anything with a little 500 glue or duct tape, and if he couldn’t fix it, he’d find a way to make it work anyway. There wasn’t a problem he couldn’t outsmart or a challenge he’d ever back down from.

More than anything, Spencer wanted everyone to remember the adventures, the laughter-filled stories with friends, the unforgettable moments with family, and the countless memories created along the way. He lived a life rich with love, loyalty, mischief, and the kind of humor that could lift even the heaviest day.

Spencer is survived by his wife of 41 wonderful years, Wanda Smith; daughters, Theresa Baldwin (Donald) of Huntsville, AL, Samantha Slay (Marshall Jr.) of Vancleave, and Mary Adams of Vancleave; 5 grandchildren, Elizabeth, Donald II, and Joseph Baldwin, Andrew, and Madelyn Slay; 2 great grandchildren, Matthew Vanhouden and Kylo Drew; brother, Wesley Smith (Catherine); sister, Dorothy Guerra; nieces, Jynette Purser (Keith), Paige Foskey (Dusty), Chasity Ennis; and nephews, Miles Smith and Thomas Edie.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Janie Smith; and sister-in-law, Catherine Smith.

A service honoring Spencer’s life will be held at Biloxi National Cemetery on December 5th at 12:30 p.m., with a reception to follow at Christus Victor Lutheran Church in Ocean Springs. In keeping with his wishes, those attending are encouraged to share a story, a laugh, or a memory, because that’s how he wanted to be remembered.

Spencer lived boldly, loved fiercely, and left behind a legacy of grit, humor, and unforgettable stories. His fight is over, his watch is done, and his reveille has sounded for the last time.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Spencer Frederick Smith.

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11/24/2025

Harry Charles "Chuck" Day

Harry Charles “Chuck” Day, age 96, of Gulfport, passed away on Saturday, November 22, 2025.

Chuck was born on March 9, 1925, in Chattanooga, TN. He attended college for 3 years and joined the US Air Force, where he was a Master Sergeant and served for 20 years.

Chuck was preceded in death by his wife, Janet Day; mother, Lela Day; and brother, James Day.

Survivors include his children, Steven Day, Randy Day, Jeffery Day, Scott Day, and Donna Christiansen; 13 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

A service will be held at Biloxi National Cemetery with US Air Force honors. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport is honored to serve the Day family.

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11/24/2025

Jack Tufnell

Jack Tufnell passed peacefully in his sleep on November 22, 2025. He was 88 years old. Jack was born in Manistique, Michigan, on February 27, 1937, and graduated from Manistique High School in 1954. He then joined the U.S. Navy serving on numerous ships and saw duty in Korea and two tours in Vietnam. During which time he was awarded the following medals and awards: NAVY COMMENDATION (2) NAVY ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL MERITORIOUS UNIT COMMENDATON NATIONAL DEFENSE SERVICE MEDAL (2) NAVY MARINE COMBAT ACTION RIBBON NAVY GOOD CONDUCT MEDAL (6) ARMED FORCES EXPEDITIONARY MEDAL UNITED NATIONS SERVICE MEDAL KOREA SERVICE MEDAL VIETNAM SERVICE MEDAL W/FMF COMBAT OPS INSIGNIA REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM COMBAT ACTION MEDAL REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM CAMPAIGN MEDAL REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM AF HONOR MEDAL 2 ND CLASS REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM CIVIL ACTION MEDAL 2 ND CLASS REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM ARMED FORCES GALLANTRY MEDAL W/CROSS

He retired after just over 30 years achieving the rank of Master Chief. Following his military career, he moved to Ocean Springs in 1984 and worked for the Navy in support of the Aegis Cruiser and Destroyer programs at Ingalls Shipbuilding. A devoted husband, father, and brother Jack relished these important roles. He was an avid golfer, playing as much as 6 days a week. He is preceded in death by his mother and father, Emma and George Tufnell and his wife, Mary (Cardy) Tufnell. He leaves behind his children, Brooke, Kristen, Dennis (Kelli), and David; grandchildren, Jonathan (Rosie), Chantyl (Jeff), Gage, Addison (Mikayla), Leah, Kennedy, Kambrie, and Ryker; and great- grandchildren, Trinity, Dawsey, Dawson, Ella, Emma, Teagan and Rynleigh. He also leaves behind two brothers, Bill (Gayle) Tufnell and Danny (Karen) Tufnell.

On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, there will be a 10 am graveside service at Biloxi National Cemetery. Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Jack Tufnell.

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