Danny Lee Waits, 75, of Latimer, Mississippi, passed away peacefully surrounded by the loves of his life on Saturday, February 14th, 2026.

Born on December 12th, 1950, in Biloxi, Mississippi, he was the youngest of five sons of Walter and Anna Jean Waits. He was a 1967 graduate of St. Martin High School.

A patriot at heart, Danny had a fierce love for his country. He served in the United States Army National Guard Reserve followed by a highly successful 35-year career at Ingalls Shipbuilding.

But most important to him was his family. He married his soulmate, Judy Darlene, on August 11th, 1972, and together for over 53 years, they built an amazing life filled with an abundance of love and most definitely laughter.

He thrived on a good joke or prank and was known for his love of really good food, gardening, and woodworking. He was a master craftsman and avid sportsman, and he had a love of hot rods, particularly his black 1985 C10 Chevy truck.

He loved nothing more than sitting on the back porch and being around all the good people that he dearly loved. He was a friend to many, and he had an impact on all who knew him.

Danny is survived by his beloved wife, Judy, his son, Jeremy (Lisa), his daughter, Jessica (Rob Saizan), granddaughter, Jaedyn, and his brother, Wayne Waits.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, his first-born granddaughter – his sweet baby girl - Juliana Lee, and his brothers, Marlin, Darrell, and Leslie.

The family would like to especially thank the nurses, staff, and friends at DaVita Ocean Springs Dialysis for all the love and care over the years.

Thank you, Weezer, for always being there.

Please join the family as we gather to share stories, laughter, and love in honor of his extraordinary life well-lived on Sunday, March 1st, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Latimer Community Center.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport is serving the family.