Vance Rawls

Vance Quitman Rawls passed away on October 6, 2021, in Gulfport, MS just a few weeks short of his 80th birthday.

Vance was born and grew up in Andalusia, Alabama. His parents were Dr. Vance Rawls and Bessie Friel Rawls. He joined the Army after high school and spent 18 months in Korea. He used that opportunity to visit and learn as much as he could about that part of the world, visiting Japan, the Philippines, and other nearby places.

After he returned home, he attended college at Troy State University, and later at the University of Southern Mississippi, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in History. He spent 23 years teaching Social Studies for the New Orleans Public Schools.

While he was at USM, he met Lynne Prosser, and the were married in 1970. Lynne and Vance had a long and happy life together, celebrating 51 years of marriage. They have one son, Vance Q. Rawls, III, who is the light of their life.

He was a faithful member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Gulfport and volunteered with their St. Vincent De Paul Society for many years.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his wife, Lynne Rawls; son, Vance Rawls and his wife Heidi; grandchildren, Quin, Connor, Mason, Reagan, and Carter; his mother-in-law, Grace Prosser; He is also survived by many other extended family members and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30AM on Wednesday, October 13, 2021, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 12290 Depew Rd, Gulfport. A visitation will begin at 10:00AM until Mass time at the church. A burial will follow the Mass at Biloxi National Cemetery with military honors.

Donations in Vance’s name to the St. Vincent De Paul Society at St. Joseph Catholic Church would be appreciated.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport is serving the family.

Online condolences and pictures can be shared at www.rieammfamily.com