Joseph Michael "Joe" Gannon, Jr.

Joseph Michael “Joe” Gannon, Jr., age 87 of Long Beach, passed away on Wednesday, September 23, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Leodia Gannon, Sr. and his siblings, Joanne Killegrew and David Gannon.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Patricia “Pat” Gannon; his son, Joe (Kasey) Gannon, III; his daughter, Julie (Nick) Merry; his grandchildren, Gannon Merry, Sophia Merry, Roland Merry and Easton Gannon; his sisters, Mary Loney and Linda Mucha and numerous nieces and nephews.

Born and raised in Gulfport, Mississippi, Joe was a proud graduate of Gulfport High School. Even during his high school years, he demonstrated a strong sense of service, serving in the National Guard. He faithfully served as an altar server throughout his elementary and high school years. Upon graduating, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he honorably served his country for three years.

Following his military service, Joe continued his education, beginning at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College – Perkinston Campus. He went on to attend the University of Southern Mississippi and later at the School of Banking at Louisiana State University. His education prepared him for a long and successful career in banking, where he spent more than 30 years with Hancock Bank. At the time of his retirement, Joe was a Vice President overseeing the Indirect Finance Department.

It was during his years working on the Mississippi Gulf Coast that Joe met the love of his life, Pat. Together, they shared 60 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, family, and countless cherished memories. Their partnership was a beautiful and enduring part of Joe’s life.

Joe was a man of many interests. He tried his hand at shrimping, raising cattle and growing vegetables. He loved fishing and spending time outdoors, always finding joy in staying active and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. He was a devoted University of Southern Mississippi football fan and looked forward to watching the Golden Eagles play each year. He was also a loyal Saints fan.

Family was at the heart of Joe’s life. Having lost his father at an early age, Joe, as the eldest son, naturally became a source of strength for his mother and siblings. He was their rock, the person they could always count on who was there whenever he was needed. His love and devotion to his family remained a defining part of who he was throughout his life.

Joe was a devout Catholic whose faith was an important part of his life. He treasured time spent with his family, who were always among his highest priorities. He especially enjoyed gathering with loved ones on the weekends and sharing one of his favorite traditions: preparing Lebanese cuisine for those he loved.

Joe lived a life marked by service, devotion, and love. He was deeply loved by his family and friends, and the memories he created with them will be treasured for generations to come.

He will be dearly missed, but his legacy of love and the many wonderful memories he leaves behind will live on in all who knew and loved him.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church with burial at Evergreen Cemetery, Gulfport.

Memorial contributions may be made in Joe’s name to Habitat for Humanity of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is honored to serve the family. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com .