James Funderburk

Mr. James “Jay” Olin Funderburk, Jr., 74, earned his highest-ranking “jump” wings, the wings of an angel, on November 17, 2020.

He was born August 2, 1946, to Margaret Bonner and Olin Funderburk. He is survived by his wife, Cherie Woodyard Funderburk of 50 years, his children James “Jay” O. Funderburk, III, Joanna F. Dorris, and William “Bill” R. Funderburk; and eleven grandchildren, Kaytlin, Amber, Morgan, Joel, Jay Mason, Hayden, Olin, William, Allyson, Finnegan, and Liam. He is also survived by his siblings, Druscilla Morman, Bonnie Dudley, Melly Turner, and Bill Funderburk as well as his Aunt Sarah Funderburk.

After retiring from a twenty-year career with Brown & Root where he received numerous commendations and safety awards, Jay spent the last ten years of his life employed as maintenance manager at the Gulfport Yacht Club, which he says was the best hobby he ever had.

Jay served as a United States Army, Green Beret in the 5th Special Forces Group, 1st Special Forces, as a medic from 1967 to 1969 in the Vietnam war and struggle among the citations he received was a Bronze Star with a “V” for Valor. Jay was a 32nd degree Mason and member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in memory to the Salvation Army or the Episcopal Relief and Development fund.

A visitation will be on Saturday, Saturday, November 21, 2020, from 3 – 5 pm at the RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 19130 Commission Road, Long Beach. A private graveside will be held on Tuesday, November 24, 2020 in the Biloxi National Cemetery.