Eugene J. Kerr

Eugene Kerr of Biloxi passed away on March 19th at Canon Hospice in Gulfport after a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease. Known to family and friends as Gene, he was 83. Gene was born in Antigo, WI on 2/21/28. He grew up in Ironwood, MI & Ypsilanti, MI. He attended the University of Michigan, served in the Air Force for 6 years, including time at Keesler AFB. He then worked at Keesler AFB for 30 years in Civil Service, retiring in 1984.
In retirement, Gene flourished in freely serving his community and church. He helped start the local St. Vincent de Paul Society at Our Lady of Fatima Church. He served many years, as Treasurer and 6 years as President. He humbly spoke of how St. Vincent started with a small annual budget, growing a hundred fold in the 90's, all donated by the people of the parish and all of which was used to help the poor and those in need. He said meeting the people in need face to face was especially important and he wished more people would be willing to stretch their generosity by being with the people St. Vincent's served. His family often said he was busier in his retirement than he was when employed, doing what he wanted to do; serving people and God with gratitude.
While growing up in the north, he was the epitome of a true Southern Gentleman. He had a great sense of humor - often teased by family and friends of having ""Michigan humor.""
Gene's faith and family were the center of his life. He was known as a kind, generous and selfless man - always putting others ahead of himself. He enjoyed long walks, woodworking and golf. He said he loved hitting the golf course where he could forget the worries of the world for a time in the beauty of the course. He especially enjoyed bowling & square dancing for many years with his wife Eloise and their friends. He delighted others with his penchant for growing beautiful flowers and sharing them with Eloise.
He was a devoted husband, loving father and joyful grandfather who always taught that fairness and honesty was important and that all people should be treated with respect and without discrimination. He could strike up a friendly conversation with nearly anyone, anytime. A simple, good man who will be missed.
Gene is preceded in death by his mother and father, Margaret and Samuel Kerr, his first wife, Frieda Grasich Kerr and by brothers Bill, Dave, Merlin and Jack Kerr as well as sister Mary Kerr Parsons.
He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Eloise Kingry Kerr, son Larry Howe-Kerr (and wife, Kathy) of Colorado, daughters Linda Kerr Keenum (and husband, Mike) and Gail Kerr, and brother Robert Kerr of Ohio. He has three grandchildren, Jeffrey Keenum, Lauren Howe-Kerr and Luke Howe-Kerr.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, March 23rd at Our Lady Of Fatima Church, Pass Road, Biloxi, at 3 p.m. with viewing and visitation from 2-3 p.m. Interment will follow the Mass at Southern Memorial Park, Biloxi. RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, Biloxi assisted the family with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Vincent de Paul Society or Second Mile Ministry, First Baptist, Biloxi.