James "Gerald" Lamey

Gerald died Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at the age of 80 peacefully in his home surrounded by his family.

Gerald was born and raised in Biloxi, Mississippi where he graduated from Biloxi High School in 1961.  He then attended MGCCC Perkinston Campus and played center on the football team.  Gerald graduated in 1963 with an associate degree.

Gerald worked at Ingalls shipyard for 33 years.  He began in the pipefitting apprenticeship program and worked as a first-class pipefitter for several years.  He then moved into drafting and finished his career in the planning department.  Gerald also taught for the apprenticeship program at MGCCC Jackson County campus two nights a week for many years.  In addition to shipbuilding, he was often seen on the football and softball fields as an umpire.  Gerald held the title of ASA District 1 Commissioner for several years and established a winter softball league at Rudy Moran Park.  He also played an important role in building the first girls softball fields for St. Martin schools.

In addition to his career, Gerald was the quintessential family man.  He was a loving, selfless husband for 56 years.  A father who always had time for homework, bath time, and pillow fights.  Also, his role as “Pawpaw” was filled with singing silly songs, changing diapers, and #1 shopping babysitter.  His love also extended to his nieces and nephews who often “just stopped by” to see Uncle Gerald.

He wrote beautiful poetry for his family.  His jokes had perfect timing.  His skills on the dance floor were unmatched, and his love of music was evident from childhood until death.  Gerald was often heard singing in the shower with a gentle voice that soothed the soul.  He was truly the original modern man.

Gerald was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in D’Iberville, Mississippi.  He is preceded in death by his parents Olga Mae and Edward Lamey; three sisters, Marie Lindsey (Alex), Janette McClellon (Sonny), and Wanda Lizana (Emery); his son, Gregory Stephen Lamey, and his niece, Carol King.

He is survived by his wife, Charlotte Freeman Lamey; his children, Danielle Lamey Ackerman (Ched) and Dallon Nathaniel Lamey (Tasha); his grandchildren, Dajon Elizabeth Acevedo (Shane), Jonathon Jared Acevedo (Emily), Calvin Lipe III, Phiona Lipe, and Paul Dauphin; great grandchildren, Gregory Stephen Lamey II, Aurora Evelyn Lamey, Roman Dauphine, and Sophia Jonda Acevedo; and numerous nieces and nephews – all whom he loved unconditionally.

May he rest in the arms of Jesus until we see him again.

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd. in West Jackson County is proud to serve the Lamey Family.  An online register is available for signing or sharing memories, condolences and photos at www.riemannfamily.com