Avel Larry Ladner

Avel Ladner was born September 9, 1945 in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. ""To have a good friend you have to be a good friend . . ."" He attended St. John Elementary and High School and graduated in 1963. He had some of his best times and made lasting friendships while attending the Perkinston Campus of MGCCC. He graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a degree in political science and history.
He spent 35 years working for the United States Department of Agriculture in their Imported Fire Ant Laboratory and retired in 2001. He was a key member of the U.S.D.A.'s team responsible for the testing and formulation of ground-breaking pesticides, which are used for fire ant control across the United States. Avel was a biological technician who was also responsible for field and equipment modification and calibrations used for various research studies. He received numerous awards and commendations during his career for his performance both in the U.S., Mexico and Central America. Additionally, he served as a Captain in the Harrison County Sherriff's Department Reserves.
His lifetime love of Volkswagen ""Beetles"" was evident. His numerous restorations brought great joy to many enthusiasts on the Gulf Coast. He was a long time member of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Volkswagen Club and served as its President for a number of years, too. He was known for his design of unique trophies at the Club's annual car show every March. He served as a Cruisin' the Coast volunteer for numerous years, as well.
Avel's love of quail hunting was another great passion that was carried throughout his life. This love gave him the added benefit of meeting new people and making even more friends across the United States. He also was active in his local community - coaching and serving as an official for girls' softball in Bayou View and also volunteering at The Lord is My Help food kitchen, delivering meals to the elderly every week. He attended Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Biloxi.
Avel, always willing to lend a hand, designated himself as an organ donor. In passing, he was able to continue this legacy.
He was preceded in death by his father, Welton Ladner, Sr.; and his mother, Hylda Ladner; his brothers, Louis and Johnny; and his uncle, Larry Necaise. Avel is survived by his wife, Dorothy, and daughters S. Lillian Kane and Ashlee Ladner. He is also survived by his three sons, Chuck, Thomas, and Todd; and their families. He is survived by his brother, Welton, Jr. (Anita); and sisters, Donna Ladner and Barbara (William) Culps. Avel will be missed by his special pets Chloe and Goblin.
The services will be held Saturday at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Biloxi, MS. The visitation is from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., with Mass to follow at 11 a.m. The interment will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Gulfport, MS. Arrangements by RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME and memories may be shared at www.riemannfamily.com.