Newitt Anthony "Tony" Rouse

Newitt Anthony "Tony" Rouse, a beloved member of his community, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on January 17, 2025, in his birthplace of Saucier, Mississippi, just days short of his 87th birthday. Born on January 21, 1938, he dedicated much of his life to his work as a heavy equipment operator, retiring after many years of service with the City of Gulfport.

Tony received his education from Harrison County Agricultural High School in Perkinston, Mississippi. Throughout his career, he became known for his skilled craftsmanship and unwavering dedication to his work, earning the respect of his colleagues and contributing significantly to the operations of the city he served. He was retired from International Union of Operating Engineers of Gulfport and also retired from the city of Gulfport.

A man of many interests, Tony held a strong affiliation with the J.L. Power Lodge #416 and was an active member of the Masonic Lodge. His commitment to these organizations reflects the values of community and brotherhood that he cherished throughout his life.

He is survived by his loving children, Ted (Memory) Rouse, Deanna (Keith) Cavalier, and Christina (Albert) Anderson; his siblings, Elaine Breeding and Alice Hickman, as well as his cherished grandchildren: Tiffany (Thomas) Mitchell, Jessica (William) Norris, Rio (Tisha) Cavalier, Jimmy Rouse, Jenifer (James) Dowdy, Jaime (JohnJohn) Rouse, Adrianna Brown, Alyssa (James) Brown, Kamryn Cavalier, Autumn Brown and Miles and Zach Anderson. In addition to his grandchildren, Newitt was the proud grandfather to 16 great-grandchildren and is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Kermit and Velma Rouse; his brothers, James Rouse and Kermit Rouse, Jr.; his son, Newitt E. Rouse; nephew Jeffrey Hickman and his ex-wife, Lenna Faye Rouse.

Tony will be deeply missed by all who knew him, remembered not only for his contributions to his profession but also for the love he fostered within his family and his commitment to his community. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the family he cherished.

The family would like to especially thank Deaconess home and health and Deaconess hospice.  

A visitation will be from 12:00-1:00 PM, Friday, January 24, 2025, at Saucier United Methodist Church, funeral service will begin at 1:00 PM, interment will follow at Saucier Cemetery.  A reception will follow after the graveside back at the church.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is serving the family.