Lawrence "Rip" Phillip Poulos, Jr.

Lawrence “Rip” Phillip Poulos, Jr. Age 71, of Ocean Springs, MS, passed away on August 4, 2025.

Rip was born in Biloxi, Mississippi, and was a longtime resident of Ocean Springs. He graduated from Mississippi State University with a degree in Architectural Engineering and attended high school at Notre Dame. A licensed commercial contractor, Rip built an extraordinary career across five states—MS, LA, TX, FL, and AL. He was self-employed and took great pride in every project he touched.

In Mississippi, Rip constructed multiple casino sites, condominiums, and restaurants. In Louisiana, he built the Maritime Facility for the Coast Guard, oil tanks, and concrete pads for storage tanks. His work in Texas included designing and constructing two drilling rigs for the USS Steel Corporation, building rail systems for turbines, and underground utilities. He also owned a medical waste disposal company in Texas.

In Florida, Rip built the Perdido Key Bay Condos and the Marriott Hotel and also renovated the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel Church. In Alabama, he built testing pads for NASA’s engine test sites.

In 1981, Rip was featured on the cover of Drilling Magazine for his oil rig design. He loved to fish and boat among the Mississippi and Louisiana islands. He played little league baseball, football in high school as a wide receiver, and was a member of the Biloxi Boxing Club. He also enjoyed dining out at restaurants. Rip was a former member of the Knights of Columbus.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Larry Phillip Poulos, Sr. and Patricia Ann Pickich; paternal grandparents, Joseph Poulos and Irene Trochessett; and maternal grandparents, Albert Pickich and Stella Fountain.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 20 years, Marian Frances Horner Poulos; and his siblings: Craig Poulos, Luis Poulos (Leticia), and Deena Poulos McClure (Alan).

Rip will be remembered for his cheerful attitude, bright smile, and his favorite sayings: “Oh, mercy, mercy, mercy!” and “Hey, hey, how you doing?” He cherished his wife, Marian, and their bond was a testament to enduring love and companionship.

His legacy of love and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. The family would like to thank those who provided care or support during his illness.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 8, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. with a visitation from 9-11 a.m. at The Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Howard Ave. in Biloxi. A reception will follow at 12:30 p.m. the Riemann Family Funeral Home located at 13872 Lemoyne Blvd. in West Jackson County.

The Riemann Family Funeral Home in West Jackson County is honored to serve the Poulos family in their time of need.

Share memories, condolences, and photos by visiting our website at www.riemannfamily.com