Gary "Mike" Michael Nance

Gary Michael “Mike” Nance, age 60, passed away peacefully in his home in Gulfport, MS, on Monday, May 27, 2024.  

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Tate and Janie Nance.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years, Therese Griffon; his children, Sarah Herring, Catherine Weems (Duane), Lee Herring (Roxanne), Teri Breeland; his brothers, Chris Nance (Tammy), and David Nance (Angie); his grandchildren, Julie Fortenberry (Wyatt), Jesse Herring, Jack Herring, Luke Fisher, Griff Weems, Dominic Helton, Hollis Weems, Gabe Helton, and Luna Breeland; his great-grandchildren, Delilah Fortenberry and Samantha Fortenberry; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

A much-adored husband and Pawpaw, Mike loved his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and his family. He devoted his life in service to both. Mike served his country for two years as an Army chaplain’s assistant and spent four years in the Army Reserves. He later attended St. Joseph Seminary and served as a priest in the Catholic Diocese of Biloxi for seven years. He was, also, very proud of the ten years he spent building ships for the U.S. Navy at Ingall’s Shipyard.

Mike was an avid fisherman. He and Therese shared a love of gardening and enjoyed caring for their chickens. Mostly, he delighted in his family, especially his grandchildren. On any given day he could be found engaging with them in riveting games of chess, monopoly, and UNO. He shared with them countless hours making art and teaching them life’s important lessons. His endless supply of Dad jokes kept them laughing; especially the ones about elevators, because they are funny on so many levels.    

The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, calls, visits, love, and support.

 Visitation will be on Friday, May 31, 2024, from 2 - 3 pm at Holy Family Catholic Church in Pass Christian.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 3 pm in the church.