Cecil Berry Creel, Jr.

Cecil Berry Creel, Jr. of Ocean Springs, was born April 25, 1950 and entered his eternal home with Jesus on March 22, 2024.

He was born in Denver, Colorado but Long Beach, Mississippi was his home. He enjoyed a wonderful childhood in Long Beach with his mother and father, Cecil B. and Laura Clare Creel, and three sisters. He was a member of St. Thomas Catholic Church of Long Beach, where he served as an altar boy in his youth. Cecil’s faith remained an important part of his life and he found comfort in the Scriptures and in prayer, particularly during his year-long illness.

After high school, Cecil enjoyed his occupation in construction for many years. However, he later had the opportunity to return to school at the University of Southern Mississippi, where he excelled as a student and earned his Bachelor of Science degree. As a Registered Nurse, Cecil found his calling in life. He worked as an emergency room nurse at Gulfport Memorial Hospital and then finished his nursing career as the school nurse at D’Iberville High School.

Cecil was married to the love of his life, Alyson Perry Creel, for 43 years. The two of them were an example of a strong and loving marriage. Alyson often stated that “he is my favorite person.”  Their home was always open to family, friends, and acquaintances as a safe haven for those who needed a meal or a place to stay.  

Cecil had a joyful personality and an uplifting sense of humor. He was a lifelong learner and was knowledgeable on a myriad of subjects. He enjoyed the great outdoors, particularly boating and water activities, theater, photography and gun collecting. He was an avid hockey fan and loved film noir classic movies. Cecil was an amazing listener and a mentor to nieces, nephews, and students.

Since his passing, many have written sentiments about Cecil. One student summarized all of them well, “One of the best humans I ever had a chance to come across. He truly touched the hearts of many teenagers in a time, where life was hard for them. He was a friend, a mentor, even a parental figure. He treated not just sickness but also self-doubts, broken hearts and hard homework problems. The world lost one absolutely amazing man.”

Besides his parents, Cecil was predeceased by his sister, Karen Leary. He is survived by his wife, Alyson and two sisters: Diane Peranich (husband John) and Laura Clare Meadows. He is also survived by nieces and nephews: John Peranich, Stephen Peranich, Daniel Peranich, Anthony Peranich, Tim Leary, Jr., Patrick Leary, Gannon Leary, Colleen Leary, Laura Clare Holloway, Christian Nelson, Michael Stewart and Paul Stewart and 18 great nieces and nephews.

The family expresses a special thank you to Nurse Practitioner, Jillian Kimbrell, Dr. Cory Carter and staff and the Singing River Hospice of Life.

Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, from 10 – 11 am at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 720 E Beach Blvd, Long Beach.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 am in the church.

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, West Jackson County, is serving the family and online condolences may be offered at www.riemannfamily.com