Thomas J. Townsend

Thomas J. Townsend, age 79, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2015 surrounded by his loving family in Gulfport, MS.
He was a native of Philadelphia, MS resident of the Mississippi Gulf Coast for many years with his devoted wife, Shelby. He served a short term in the Navy and also served on the Biloxi Auxiliary Police Force as a major for 15 years. He owned a paint contracting business for many years and was a painter for over 50 years along the Gulf Coast and the states of Tennessee, Virginia, Louisiana, and Alabama. He enjoyed his time hunting, fishing, camping, gardening and watching sports.
He is preceded in death by his daughter, Pamela Lynn Townsend; parents, V.H. and Vista Townsend; brother, David Townsend; son-in-law, Steve Hinson; and infant great-grandchild, Gunnar Moran.
He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Shelby Townsend; his 3 children, Otha (Karen) Townsend, Peggy (Ronnie) Hood, Patricia ""Tritter"" Hinson (fiancé Larry Hudson); his brothers, Randolph Townsend, Jack Townsend, Elijah Townsend and Edward Townsend; his sister, Alma Bates; 5 grandchildren, Otha Townsend II, Brandy Moran, Crystal Naron, Shannon Fant, and Alyssa Hill; and several great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be on Sunday, March 8, 2015, from 1 pm - 3 pm at the RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport. The funeral service will be at 3 pm in the funeral home chapel. Burial will be in Woolmarket Cemetery.
An online guestbook may be signed at www.riemannfamily.com