Don Geil, Sr.

On Saturday, March 30, 2024, our Lord took a beloved soul home to heaven.  Don Lee Geil, Sr. lovingly known as Papa, was born on November 27, 1945 in Gulfport, MS to his parents, Jacob Clarence Geil and Beulah Nix Geil.  

He is preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Geil, Sr. of Gulfport.

Don was blessed with 58 years of marriage to his wife, Sharon Palazzo Geil. Together they had two children: Don Jr. of Gulfport and his wife, Christy; and Lance Geil of Gulfport.  Through their children came six grandchildren:  Thomas Geil of New Orleans, Louisiana and his wife, Jessica; Chelsea Yarbrough of Gulfport and her husband, Matthew; Gunner Geil of Nashville, Tennessee; Mackenzi Geil of D’Iberville and Jacob Nitkiewicz, Adyson Geil and Blakelee Geil, both of Gulfport; their great-grandchildren: Skylynn Yarbrough, Emersyn Nitkiewicz, and Charley Yarbrough.  He also leaves behind two beloved sisters, Barbara Weaver of Fairfax, Virgina and Peggy Stiglets-Ward of Gulfport.

Don was a 1963 graduate of Harrison Central High School and a longtime member of Gulfhaven Mennonite Church.   In 1965, he started his career at Mississippi Power Company as a line crew helper.  He was dedicated, passionate and loved his time employed at Mississippi Power.  In 2010, after 45 years, he retired as a Senior Safety Specialist.  

Don loved spending time with his family and close friends, rebuilding his 1954 Ford Pickup Truck, fishing, and watching NASCAR. He was also an inspiring football and baseball coach to many. Don will be deeply missed by his family and friends, and his memory will be cherished forever.

Visitation for friends and family will be on Monday, April 1, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Gulfhaven Mennonite Church, followed by a funeral service at 4 pm.  Interment will be in the church cemetery.  

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of Summerfield Senior Living of Gulfport, and Enhabit Home Health and Hospice for their compassionate care during these difficult times.  

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to request memorial offerings be made to the Gulfhaven Mennonite Church, 21497 Mennonite Road, Gulfport.  

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is serving the family.