Joel Reeves Holifield

Joel Reeves Holifield, 78, of Long Beach, passed away on April 7, 2025.

Joel Reeves Holifield, affectionately known as "The Friendly Bug Man," was born in Laurel to George Watson Holifield and Emma Cobb Holifield. He grew up in Biloxi and later settled in Long Beach, where he became a well-respected businessman and the owner of Rocket Pest Control. Joel served his country in the U.S. Navy and his service will be recognized with military honors at his final resting place. Joel’s professional success and the lifelong friendships he formed through his work, his time as a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity at the University of Southern Mississippi, and his love for golf, were all central to the life he led. His many friends and customers knew him for his warmth and dedication, both in his business and his personal life.

Joel was a passionate golfer and an avid hunter, and he cherished the friendships he made, especially with his Biloxi High School classmates, his golf buddies, and the many other cherished friendships. A member of the First Baptist Church of Long Beach, he was deeply committed to his faith and community.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 48 years, Drenda Joyce Spitchley Holifield; his parents; and his sister-in-law, Vicki Hanna.

Joel is survived by his children, Tracey Logan (Chris), Dina Cook (Ken), Jeffrey Holifield (Kate), and Patrick Holifield; his grandchildren, Brady Logan, Abby Holifield, Reeves Cook, and Emma Holifield; and his siblings, Abia Lane Hanna and Janet Holifield Smith. Joel’s family and friends will forever remember his kindness, generosity, and the deep love he had for those closest to him.

A visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 19130 Commission Rd, Long Beach. Funeral services will follow on Monday, April 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Long Beach, with friends invited to visit one hour prior. Burial will follow at Long Beach City Cemetery.

Oh yeah … Joel was trusted by many of his clients with a key to their home as evidenced by his key ring! If he had a key to your home, it can be picked up at the visitation at Riemann’s!

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Long Beach at 300 North Cleveland Ave., Long Beach, MS, https://www.fbclb.com/give

Riemann Family Funeral Home, 19130 Commission Rd, Long Beach, MS., is proudly serving the Holifield family.