Rotten Bayou Cemetery

05/27/2026

05/25/2026

Take a moment today to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving.

05/10/2026

Randall S. DeWitt, a devoted coach, committed community member, and beloved family man, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2026, in Pass Christian, Mississippi. Born on July 30, 1950, in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, Randy lived a life marked by dedication, unique spirit, and an enduring love for those around him.

Randy's early years were shaped by the traditions of his coastal upbringing. Raised aboard the fisherman and shrimp boat “The Joann,” he was a fisherman from birth, carrying on a legacy that tethered him to the sea and the rhythm of nature. His passion for music was another hallmark of his character—he had a special gift for taking songs and creating his own lyrics, a talent he joyfully shared with his family.

After graduating from Pass Christian High School in 1969, Randy furthered his education at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. His path then led him to serve his country with honor as he was drafted into the United States Marines, adding to a life characterized by service and commitment.

Randy was deeply rooted in coaching and nurturing young minds through sport. He loved being a coach, devoting tireless energy to inspiring his own children and youth in his local community. In addition to his coaching, he served on the Pass Christian school board for over 20 years, reflecting his dedication to fostering growth and opportunity in education. His legacy is one of heartfelt mentorship, leadership, and selfless service.

His personality was one of a kind—Randy played to the beat of his own drum, exuding a uniqueness that those close to him cherished. His corny jokes, which he could always laugh at himself, brought joy and lightness to many moments. Friends and family will remember these little quirks that so perfectly captured his spirit.

Randy is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis Ann DeWitt, and their children: Randall “Stevie” DeWitt Jr and his wife Erin; Michael “Mike” DeWitt and his wife Brooke; Bradford “Brad” DeWitt and his wife Tosha; Anthony DeWitt and his wife Jennifer; Dale Peoples and his wife Jennifer; Amanda Notter; along with his sister Karen Dollar, and brothers Joey DeWitt and his wife Jan, Brian Harper and his wife Jan, and Kelly Harper and his wife Lisa. His legacy continues through a large and loving extended family including numerous grandchildren—Kaitlin (Louis), Braxon, Tipper, Joseph (Madison), Brenham (Hailey), Brit, Landon, Peyton, Ava, Teegan, Noah, Ranken, Charlie, Chadham, Georgia, Rori, Jaxon—and great-grandchild Beckett. Among many nieces, nephews, and extended family, Kenny Benigno and his wife Beth hold a special place.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Anna Benigno, his mother Patsy Harper, his father and stepmother Smokey and Kat, brother Freddy Harper, and sister Debra DeWitt.

A visitation will be held on May 12, 2026, beginning at 11 a.m. at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, located at 9062 Kiln Delisle Rd, Pass Christian, MS 39571. The Mass will follow at 12:30 p.m. with a graveside service at St. Joseph at Rotten Bayou Cemetery in Diamondhead, MS, commencing at 1:30 p.m.

Randy DeWitt leaves behind a legacy defined by love, dedication, and a spirit that inspired all who knew him. His contributions to his community and family are a testament to a life well lived and deeply cherished. The family would like to pass a special thanks to Sonia with Legacy Hospice for the time, effort, and care they provided. Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the DeWitt family in their time of need and we ask that you remember them in your thoughts and prayers through the days ahead.

05/07/2026

Jerry Thomas Brewer, born on September 14, 1951, in Greenwood, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026, in Gulfport, Mississippi. He was surrounded by family at the time of his passing.

Jerry grew up in Pascagoula, Mississippi, and later moved to Petal, where he met his beloved wife, Betty, on the baseball field. During his working years, Jerry was employed by Bayou Caddy Trucking. After retiring, he chose to settle along the beautiful Gulf Coast, a place close to his heart.

Known for his love of fishing and his deep commitment to family, Jerry also dedicated time to coaching baseball, sharing his passion and knowledge with young players. One of his proudest accomplishments was his time as a professional wrestler, where he was known by the name "Blue Yankee."

Jerry is lovingly remembered by his wife of 37 years, Betty Brewer of Bay St. Louis. He is survived by his children: Jerilyn Dryden (Sheridan) of Diamondhead, Luke Tims (Tammy) of Kodak, Tennessee, and Carla Brewer of Petal, Mississippi. He also leaves behind his sister, Esther Forby of Picayune, Mississippi. His grandchildren Mason Dryden, Michael Luke Tims, Gracee Tims, Jesse Tims, Patrick Graham, Ivee Graham, Hayden Reid, Alexis Anderson, Henry Anderson, and Dylan Robinson hold him dearly in their hearts. Jerry is also remembered by multiple great-grandchildren.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Luceille Brewer; his children, Holly Lee and Matt Tims; and his brothers, Walter, Gene, and Charlie Brewer.

Visitation for Jerry will be held on May 9, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Riemann Family Funeral Home in Waveland, MS. Following visitation, a graveside service will take place on the same day from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM at St. Joseph Cemetery at Rotten Bayou.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Waveland is assisting the family.

05/03/2026

James Thomas Lago, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and respected businessman, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026. Born on February 5, 1962,

Born on February 5, 1962, James's journey began in his hometown where he attended school up to the 12th grade. Just six weeks shy of graduation, he made the honorable decision to leave school and serve his country by joining the military. This defining choice reflected the deep sense of duty and commitment that would characterize his entire life.

After his time in service, James pursued his entrepreneurial spirit by founding Absolute Custom Painting. Through hard work, determination, and unwavering dedication, he transformed his business into a thriving enterprise that became a staple on the coast. He took immense pride in painting many homes in the area, a labor he considered both his passion and his gift to the community he loved so dearly.

Away from his business, James was a devoted family man whose greatest joy came from spending time with those closest to him. A passionate sports enthusiast, he cherished watching the New Orleans Saints, whether from the comfort of his home or live at the games, sharing those experiences with his loved ones. Fishing excursions and moments with his family brought him peace and happiness, and these simple pleasures underscored the warmth and generosity of his spirit.

James’s family was at the heart of everything he did. He shared 38 wonderful years of marriage with his wife, Katrina Lago, who stood by him through every chapter of his life. His love extended to his children: Crystal Lago, Timothy, James Lago, Jr., and Heather Chambers, each carrying forward the values and strength he instilled. He was also a cherished brother to Joey Lago, Roni Lago, and Manny Lago, whose bonds with James were lifelong and profound. His legacy lives on in his grandchildren, Bradley Brinkerhoff and Stephen Ely, who were a continual source of pride and joy.

James Thomas Lago leaves behind a remarkable legacy marked by hard work, dedication to family, and a deep love for the coastal community he helped beautify one house at a time. He was a very respected man, who touched the hearts of many people. He was a great role model and a prime example that if you want to be successful and make it you have to be determined.

The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 PM at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 141 US-90, Waveland, MS 39576. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 PM. Interment will be at St. Joseph Cemetery at Rotten Bayou, Diamondhead

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Waveland, is serving the Lago family at this time.

05/02/2026

Clifford Ray Malley, Sr., age 91, passed away peacefully at home on April 29, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Clifford was a proud Korean War veteran who served his country with honor. After his service, he worked as a truck driver, a profession that reflected his strong work ethic and dedication to providing for his family. He retired from MDOT. He was a simple man who found great joy in life’s meaningful moments, spending time hunting, fishing, and most especially gathering with those he loved. He was well known for his gift of storytelling.

He was a devoted life-long member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dedeaux, where his faith remained an important part of his life.

Clifford was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Freeda Mae Smith Malley; his parents, Napoleon and Mary Elvina Niolet Malley; his sisters, Vire Lea Cuevas and Pearl Woods; his brothers, Purvis, Renis, Clyde, Norman, and Kenneth Malley; and his granddaughter, Amanda Jo Gholston.

He is lovingly remembered by his children, Sue Ellen Gholston (Donnie), Sharon E. Malley, and Clifford Ray Malley (Sharon); his grandchildren, Nathan Gholston, Heather Malley Mitchell (Justin), Austin Malley (Ashleigh), and Dentin Malley (Mariela); and his great-grandchildren, Roman, Ryan, and Rosalyn Mitchell, Atlas and Austyn Malley, and Madelyn and Dylan Malley, along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the Vital Care Hospice Team, Christine, Erin, Natasha, Felicia, and Mary, for their compassionate care and support during this time.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Dedeaux, 14595 Vidalia Road, Pass Christian, MS 39571, beginning at 1:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m.

Interment, with Army honors, will take place at St. Joseph Cemetery at Rotten Bayou.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Pass Christian, is honored to serve the Malley family during this difficult time.

05/02/2026

SSgt John H Griffith, U.S. Army, Ret.
SSgt John H. Griffith, U.S. Army, Ret, age 79, of Kiln, passed away on May 1, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathryn Vera Griffith; a son, John M. Griffith; a daughter, Aimee Bobbitt; his mother, Louise Bell Black (Bill); his father, Kay Griffith; a sister, Nellie Adams; and a granddaughter, Katie Bobbitt.

Mr. Griffith is survived by his daughter, Jill (Mike) Prendergast; a brother, Billy Jack (Sue) Bell; 3 grandchildren, John (Meagan) DeSalvo, Jared DeSalvo, and Bo Bobbitt; 3 great-grandchildren, Nolan DeSalvo, Lena DeSalvo, and Grady Bryant; son-in-law, Big Bo Bobbitt; his nephews, Joe Loche, David Loche, Billy Adams, Tim Bell, Ron Bell, and Kevin Bell; and other relatives and friends.

He was a native of Jackson County, Al and was a longtime resident of the Kiln. Mr. Griffith retired from the U.S. Army as a Staff Sergeant. While serving in Vietnam, he was wounded in the battle at Hamburger Hill and was awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for his heroic actions. Following his retirement, he later worked as a general foreman at an Ammunition Plant continuing his support for the military.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at St. Joseph Cemetery @ Rotten Bayou.

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, 141 Hwy 90, Waveland, is serving the family.

02/06/2026

In light of what happened yesterday at Wolf River Cemetery in Lizana, we have made a call to Hancock County Central Dispatch and requested extra patrol for the next few days. If your out and see police or deputies please thank them!