Charles David Veal

Dr. Charles David Veal, 81, passed away peacefully at Summerfield Senior Living Home in Gulfport, MS, on February 9, 2025. A longtime resident of Biloxi, he was born in Quincy, Florida, on January 21,1944. David was reared on his family’s farm in Youngstown, Florida.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Helen Folds Veal and Lemuel David Veal, as well as his siblings: James Veal, Janet Gillespie, Mark Veal, and Richard Veal. He is survived by his sister, Sue Carlton; his wife of thirty-five years, Mary Sue May Veal; and his brother-in-law, John May. His surviving sons are Brian Veal and Dr. Kevin Veal (Lee Ann). In addition, he has a grandson, Hunter Veal (Ashlynn) and three great grandchildren: Presleigh Veal, Walker Veal, and Westin Veal. Two stepsons also survive him: Richard Schmidt, Jr. (Cecilia); and Gavin Schmidt (Stacy). Additionally, he has step- grandchildren: Jack Schmidt (Colby), Heath Schmidt, Ann Lauren Schmidt, and Gavin Schmidt, Jr.

A well-educated man, David received the Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Engineering from the University of Florida. The Doctorate in Engineering was conferred by Clemson University.

At Mississippi State University, Dr. Veal served thirty-five years as a researcher, educator, and administrator. During his tenure with the university, he was a professor of Agricultural Engineering and Director of the Coastal Research and Extension Center in Biloxi. He retired in 2005.

Over the years, Dr. Veal was the author of numerous publications. He also worked as chairperson of the committee to support U. S. trade laws and as Head of the Mississippi Agriculture and Forestry Experiment Station as well as the Mississippi State University Extension Services. His work also included functioning as program leader for the Mississippi Sea Grant Advisory Service.

Throughout his life, he enjoyed working and socializing within the Coast community. David was on the Board of Directors of the Crosby Arboretum. Serving as president and member of the Board of Directors of the Cheshire House was a task close to his heart. Additionally, he served as a member of The National Seafood Marketing Coalition Board of Directors and the MS-AL Sea Grant Consortium Advisory Board. A member of the Gulf Coast Carnival Association, Dr. Veal was also King of Les Masquees ladies’ carnival organization’s annual ball. He belonged to the Biloxi Yacht Club.

David was a member of Trinity Methodist church and its Asbury Class. He cherished the friendships of the members of his Sunday School class. Dr. Veal’s private funeral, which included his family, was held at Riemann Funeral Home Chapel, Biloxi, MS, on February 21, 2025.