MSgt James Harold Barton

MSgt James Harold Barton, USAF, Retired, age 94, of Gulfport, passed away on December 4, 2024.

Mr. Barton was preceded in death by his loving wife of 32 years, Sue Atkinson Barton; his parents, Dave Barton and Alma Barton. 

Survivors include 2 daughters, Pam Ladner (Steve) and Sharon Renee Savage; 2 sons, Butch Barton (Cindy) and Keith Barton (Donna); a grandson, Adam Ladner; a granddaughter, Megan Savage; and 5 great-grandchildren.

Mr. Barton was born on March 31, 1930 in Brilliant, AL and graduated from Brilliant High School in 1950. He joined the Air Force and served honorably for more than 20 years as an Air Traffic Controller. He was assigned to Keesler Air Force Base twice as an Air Traffic Controller Instructor. 

He was a member of the Trea Chapter 81 and the American Legion Post 119. He loved to build and fly model air planes and was a member of the Mississippi Coast Radio Control Club. He was a former member of the Orange Grove Youth Association and he coached Little League Teams. He also volunteered as a baseball umpire. 

Visitation will be on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, from 11 am - 12 pm at the Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport. A funeral service will be at 12 noon in the chapel. Interment will be in Biloxi National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Humane Society of South MS, 2415 Hwy 49, Gulfport, MS 39501.