Hellon "Rita" Sumrall Saucier

Hellon “Rita” Sumrall Saucier, age 89, of Orange Grove/Gulfport, passed away on Saturday, October 12, 2024.

Hellon was preceded in death by her loving husband of 56 years and the light of her life, Gerard Francis Saucier. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Lushion B. and Clara Boyd Sumrall; and her sisters Hattie and Ruby, and her brothers Prentiss, Pat, Lincoln and Lemon.

Hellon is survived by her children, Brian Gerard Saucier (Linda Fortmeier) and Regina Francess Saucier Martin (Steve J.); her beloved grandchildren, Alexander Gerard Saucier (Katherine), Sage Francess Martin (Adam Heavin), and Ross J. Martin (Christine); and her beloved great-grandchildren, Annabelle and Gerard Saucier, and Jackson, Nathan, and Hudson Martin. Hellon is also survived by her sister, Artie and her brothers, Shelton (Elaine) and Paul Ray, her sister-in-law Bonnie, and her nephew Brad and his wife, Jeannie, who were always there for her, as well as many other nieces, nephews, and friends.

Hellon and Gerard formed an immediate and lasting bond that carried them around the world during Gerard’s 23 years of service in the United States Air Force, through his second career of 20 years with Sear’s, and into their retirement years, during which they spent as much time as possible with their children and grandchildren creating wonderful and treasured memories. They shared a deep commitment to their family and a strong belief in the value of hard work and self-sufficiency. While they were unable to achieve their own educational goals, they instilled a strong belief in the importance of and a commitment to education in their children and their grandchildren. Hellon was fiercely protective of those she loved and her strength and determination left an indelible mark on those who knew her. 

Second to love of her family, Hellon loved working in her yard, always saying with a laugh that raking leaves gave her a good excuse to avoid housework. Anyone who passed her home would regularly see her at the age of 89 working happily in her yard. In fact, her routine was such that if her friend, Mark Jackson, passed more than once or twice and did not see her in the yard, he promptly called her to ensure that she was well. His care was and always will be appreciated.

Hellon will be sadly missed but she is now happily reunited with her adored husband, Gerard Francis, and with her family and friends who have gone before.

Hellon will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens in Gulfport.  Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, is serving the family.  The online guestbook may be viewed, and memories & photos shared at www.riemannfamily.com