James F. Ussery

James F. Ussery, lovingly known as Jim, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was 87.

Jim was born on August 7, 1938, in Alton, Illinois, and grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Sophrona Ussery; his brothers, Norman Ussery, Bob Ussery, Herb Ussery, and Jack Ussery; and his sisters, Marie Arnold (who raised him) and Bess Malone.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Shirlene Ussery; his children, Jay Ussery, Kim Ussery, Rob Weir (Tyler), and Molly Weir; and his seven grandchildren, Lauren (Jeffrey) Saegert, Corey (Courtney) Smith, Amber (Tyler) Boyd, Bobby Ussery, Madelyn Weir, Cooper Weir, and Rose Weir. He was also a proud great‑grandfather to Declan and Carter Saegert, Cambreigh Smith, Bryson Boyd, and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom brought him endless happiness.

Jim attended the University of Missouri before beginning a remarkable military career. He first served in the United States Air Force and later transferred to the United States Army, where he specialized in piloting the OV‑1 Mohawk, focusing on armament and surveillance missions. Jim served honorably in Vietnam and completed his Army career as a Captain. While in Vietnam, he earned numerous decorations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Air Medal with Fifth Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Distinguished Flying Cross. He later concluded his military service as a Major in the United States Air Force.

After leaving the military, Jim took to the skies again as a captain with Delta Air Lines, where he flew for 16 years before retiring in 1998.

Retirement suited Jim well. He loved raising and racing thoroughbred horses on his cherished Bouré Farm, sailing the Mississippi Sound on his boat, Vagabond, and later traveling the country with Shirlene in their RV. No matter where he was, Jim made friends easily. He had a kind heart, a quick wit, and always had a joke ready. He embraced the life he loved.

Most of all, Jim loved being with his family—especially his grandkids. He will be remembered for his warmth, humor, generosity, and the way he made everyone feel like a friend. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Jim was a member of St. James Catholic Church in Gulfport. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the St. James Capital Campaign at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/saint-james-many-parts-one-body-capital-campaign.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 10 - 11 am at St. James Catholic Church, 366 Cowan Rd, Gulfport. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 am in the church. Interment will be in Biloxi National Cemetery with full honors that will be rendered by the U.S. Air Force.

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is serving the family.