John Carlton McFarland

John Carlton McFarland, 76, of Gulfport, passed away on May 16, 2023.

John was born in Cleveland, Ohio to Homer and Mary Mikos McFarland.  He served in the United States Army where he attained the rank of Captain.  John worked for years as the Sun Herald marketing director, where he became an authority on the economy of the Gulf Coast. Upon retiring from the Sun Herald, he moved into the position of executive director of the American Red Cross for Southeast Mississippi. John served on various boards and committees over the years. His service to the Mississippi Gulf Coast includes serving as emcee at the annual Salute to Military, at Coast Chamber of Commerce events and many other boards. Because of his tireless love for his community, John was named to the Top Community Leaders in South Mississippi, awarded the Pat Santucci “Spirit of the Coast” award, the American Red Cross South Mississippi Chapter Humanitarian Award, as well as other honors. John was known as a marketing guru, a community advocate who will be remembered as someone who made South Mississippi a better place to live.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife of 46 years, Margie Ann Ellis McFarland.

He is survived by his son, Christopher John McFarland; brother, Roger McFarland (Peggy); and his nephew and niece, Eric, and Meghan McFarland.

A catered visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 24, 2023 at Riemann Family Funeral Home, 11280 Three Rivers Road, from 12 o’clock Noon until the funeral services begins at 2:00 pm.

Memorials may be made to the Southeastern Chapter of the American Red Cross, 612 East Pass Road, Gulfport, MS 39507.