Maurice Allen Root II

Maurice A. Root, age 79, of Gulfport, passed away on September 19, 2024.

He was preceded in death by his father, Maurice A. Root; his mother, Viola M. Root; a sister, Maurene M. Fish; and a brother, Burgess Root.

Mr. Root is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Janet D. Root; his children, Karena M. Kerner-Gagnon (Rich) and Alison L. Burleson (Rickey); a sister, Janece Hall; a brother, Wayne Root (Loretta); 2 grandchildren, River T. Kerner and Dylan L. Burleson; and other relatives and friends.

Mr. Root was a native of Cleveland, OH and was a longtime resident of Gulfport. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1964 – 1968 and he received a bachelors degree in Business Management. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Gulfport, Past Master of Polar Star Lodge #154 in Handsboro, 32nd degree KCCH, a member of the Gulfport York Rite Bodies and the Joppa Shrine Temple. 

He enjoyed calligraphy, an avid reader, watching westerns – the older the better, and spending time with his family. 

The family would like to thank Dr. Allison Wall and her staff, Comfort Keepers and staff, and Vital Caring Hospice and staff for the care that was given to Maurice.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorials to the Shriners Hospital for Children, Lymphoma Foundation of America, or the Masonic Home for Children.

Visitation will be on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, from 4 - 6 pm at the Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport. Military Honors and Masonic Rites will be performed at 6 pm in the chapel. Interment will be in Biloxi National Cemetery.