James Emile Haik

James Emile Haik, known to all as “Jimmy,” passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025, in Lafayette, LA. He lived in Long Beach, Mississippi, the town he proudly called home, for his entire life. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, and friend.

Born to Emile Michel Haik and Olga Shamis Haik, Jimmy grew up surrounded by extended family and a strong sense of community. He graduated from Long Beach High School in 1966 and later attended the University of Mississippi, where he studied Business and was a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity.

Jimmy was known to have nine lives. In high school, he would rather “fly” a car than drive; in college he preferred to “watch the storm come in” in a beachside hotel and slept through Hurricane Camille - waking to find his family home and most of Long Beach wrecked by the storm. He used to time his travels from Long Beach to Oxford, not bothering to turn off the MG convertible while gassing it up to save on time all the while blaring Jimi Hendrix from the speakers.

Jimmy had a long and respected career in various forms of real estate and insurance services across the Gulf Coast. Known for his easygoing nature and professionalism, he built relationships that lasted far beyond business.

Jimmy had a strong mathematical mind and adventurous spirit. He loved “beating the odds,” whether it was in the casino or watching sports. There was never a challenge too big for him to take on. But on most nights, you could find him curled up on the couch with his wife of 39 years watching their favorite reality shows.

A talented and passionate musician, Jimmy loved playing the keyboard and guitar. This began in high school when he formed his first band, “The Shades” with his younger brother. Music was a constant in his life, something he shared with family, friends, and anyone lucky enough to be nearby when he sat down to play. His rhythm and love for a good tune were as much a part of him as his sense of humor and warm smile. Jimmy also volunteered his time at the Long Beach Food Pantry. He spent many days there spreading his generosity and kindness to others.

Jimmy is survived by his beloved wife, June Smith Haik, her son Wesley Pearce, daughter-in-law Sandy Whitman Pearce, and their two children, Jacob and Emma Pearce. He is also survived by his daughter, Teri Haik Smart, of Austin, Texas, her husband J.D. Smart, and their two children, Sarah and Gray Smart. He is also survived by his brother Dr. William Emile Haik, sister-in-law Mary K. Haik, and their three daughters. He is preceded in death by his beloved daughter Tracy Leigh Haik and his brother Michael Emile Haik.

A celebration of Jimmy's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, June 16, 2025, at Riemann Family Funeral Home,19130 Commission Road, Long Beach. Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Long Beach Food Pantry, in honor of Jimmy’s memory.

To those who knew him, Jimmy will be remembered for his wit, his warmth, and his love of a good story or melody. He brought joy and levity to every room he entered and leaves behind a legacy of laughter, music, and love.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Long Beach, is honored to serve the Haik family.