Edward "Eddie" Charles Raymond

Edward Charles “Eddie” Raymond lived a musical life from start to finish. He died peacefully in his home in Woolmarket, January 15, 2024.

Eddie was born in Biloxi, MS on May 12, 1961. He was the youngest child of Elvin and Melonie Raymond, and brother to David, Tim, and Vicki.

At a very early age, Eddie found his passion in creating and performing music. He would spend countless hours teaching himself to become proficient in guitar, mandolin, pedal steel guitar, bass, sitar, keyboard and the theremin. His understanding of music theory and ability to “instantly play a song by ear” astounded those who were fortunate to witness his gifts.

Eddie didn’t just play music, he was a master piano tuner, and built as well as repaired guitars. His skills in the latter were often called upon by national entertainers who were performing on the Coast. He was also an accomplished graphic artist and songwriter.

When he wasn’t sharing his craft, he was teaching it. Many local musicians today credit their own skills to his patient, loving and encouraging approach to learning how to play.

Always ready for a gig, Eddie performed with numerous local bands in a wide variety of music genres. His talents were recognized by requests to play with professional artists like Percy Sledge and Blue Oyster Cult.

But he’d be the first to admit, performing for nearly a decade with his brother, Tim, and sister, Vicki, in their band Tribute, was the highlight of his career.

In the last few years, he ventured into a successful solo career as the house entertainment at The Shed, and a resident studio musician at Boggy Branch Recording Studio in Vancleave.

Eddie is preceded in death by his father, Elvin Raymond; and brother, Timothy (Toni) Raymond.

His musical legacy will live on in the hearts of his brother, David (Susan); and his sister, The Rev. Deacon Vicki Miller; plus numerous nieces and nephews, as well as hundreds of students and fellow musicians whose lives he touched.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in the Parish Hall. A funeral service will be at 4:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring of 2024 at Boggy Branch Studio in Vancleave.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, will be serving the family.

Donations can be made to St. Mark's Community Art Center at https://www.stmarksgulfport.com/give