Claire Gillis Dugger, age 79 of Biloxi, MS, passed away on Friday, May 29, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Carolyn Gillis.

Claire is survived by her loving husband of 35 years, Billy Dugger; her step children, Adam (Stephanie) Dugger and Dory (Bradley) Beall; and her step grandchildren, Barrett and Paige Beall.

She was born and raised in Mendenhall, Mississippi, where she graduated from Mendenhall High School. She went on to attend the University of Mississippi, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics in 1969, and later received a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Claire began her professional career as a mathematics teacher at Gulfport High School. She then joined Mississippi Power, where she dedicated 24 years of service, holding positions in fuel accounting, the training department, economic development, and commercial bill accounting. She was known for her impeccable accuracy in fuel reconciliation. Following her retirement from Mississippi Power, she continued her commitment to the community by working for the Harrison County Development Commission until her retirement in 2016.

A devoted supporter of the arts, Claire was an active member of Center Stage and was honored as a 50-year actress for her longstanding contributions to community theater.

Claire and her husband, Billy, shared a love of travel and enjoyed many memorable adventures together throughout the United States and Europe. She was an avid collector of American coins and took pride in building an extensive collection over the years. Claire also enjoyed shopping, dressing elegantly, and spending time on the dance floor. She devoted a lot of time loving on her toy poodle, Beignet. Her vibrant spirit brought joy to all who knew her.

Celebration of Claire’s life will be held at 7:00 pm on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 274 Beauvoir Road, Biloxi, with visitation beginning at 5:00 pm. Graveside service will be held at 12:00 pm on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Collins Cemetery in Collins, MS, where she will be laid to rest with her parents.

An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com .