Beverly “Joy” Holley, age 83, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 13, 2026.

Joy was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest D. Norris and Ethel Pucheu Norris; her sister, Elizabeth Norris; her brother, Jerry M. Norris; and sister-in-law, Julie F. Norris.

She is survived by her brother, Don Norris, Sr.; her nephews, Don Norris, Jr., Damon M. Norris (Katja), and John “Jay” Ellis, Jr. (Heather); and her niece, Beckett J. Dutil.

Born and raised in Gulfport, Joy was a proud graduate of St. John High School, Class of 1961, where she was honored as Miss St. John High School.

Joy devoted her life to education and the children she served. She retired from the Gulfport School System after 28 years as a teacher and later retired from St. James Elementary School after an additional 10 years of teaching. She was known for her generosity, dedication, and willingness to go above and beyond for her students. To provide enriching opportunities for them, she even earned her Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) so she could personally take students on field trips to destinations such as the Audubon Zoo, the New Orleans Aquarium, and many other educational experiences, often covering expenses herself when needed.

A faithful Catholic, Joy was an active member of both St. Therese Catholic Church and St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. She was unwavering in her support of her faith community, its clergy, and the religious sisters who faithfully served the community.

Joy was also an avid fan of the New Orleans Saints and a longtime season ticket holder who enjoyed sharing game-day experiences with family and friends. She had a special love for the city of New Orleans, where she spent much of her time enjoying its culture, traditions, and Mardi Gras celebrations.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., with burial to follow at Gulf Pines Memorial Gardens in Long Beach.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bereavement Committee at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is honored to serve the Holley family during this difficult time.