George John Gricius, Jr.

   George John Gricius Jr., age 82, went to be with his Lord Jesus Christ on August 9, 2024, at 4:30 a.m. He passed peacefully with family by his side. 

   George was born on February 17, 1942, in Chicago, IL to George John Gricius Sr. and Marie Grokulsky Gricius.

   George attended grade school in Chicago and high school in Denver, CO. He joined the Navy at age 17 and served seven years before transferring to the Air Force, where he served 13 years. During that time, he served in the Philippines and in Antarctica. While stationed at Keesler Air Force base in Biloxi, he met and then married his wife Faye in 1972. They had one son, Forrest Gricius. Shortly after they were transferred to New Jersey. Later, they were transferred again to Augusta, GA. During his time there he graduated Cum Laude from Augusta College with a Bachelor’s degree in 1980. He acquired his Master’s degree three years later and his PHD in 2003. After retiring from the military, they made their home in Atlanta, GA, where they lived for thirty years. 

   George worked for Electronics Data Systems for several years. Then, he went to work for Force Command as an environmental chief and received the Environmental Excellence Award from the Secretary of the Army at the Pentagon in 2001.

   Upon retiring from Force Command, he and Faye, moved to Biloxi, MS. George was a member of Woolmarket Baptist Church. He was very active as a teacher for the “Mens’ Five” Sunday School class, as well as working with children in Beach Club until he suffered a stroke five years ago. His greatest desire was to share the Gospel, which he did by sharing his faith wherever he went.

   He was preceded in death by his parents and his only son Forrest Gricius. 

 Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Faye Eaves Gricius; sister Donna Worthen of Playa Vista, CA; brother Eddie Gricius and wife Jane of Irvine, CA. 

   George will be remembered as a dedicated husband, father, and teacher, serving as a leader in the military as well as in his ministry at church. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

   In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tunnel To Towers Foundation or The Cornerstone Foundation. 

   Friends are invited to join the family for visitation and services on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, MS 39503.  Visitation will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., with the Funeral service to follow at 11:30 a.m.

  George will be laid to rest at Biloxi National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m.

  The online guestbook may be signed, and memories & photos shared at www.riemannfamily.com