Patrick P. LaNasa

Patrick Paul LaNasa, age 91, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 28, 2025. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Patrick’s life journey eventually led him to Gulfport.

Patrick proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps for 30 years, including two tours in Vietnam. Rising to the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant, from which he retired in 1972, Patrick embodied the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment. His service was a lifelong source of pride and shaped the steady strength and integrity he carried throughout his life.

After retiring from the military, Patrick continued to serve others in meaningful ways. He worked as a plant salesman at El Modino Gardens and later as a real estate salesman, roles that allowed him to share his love of nature and connect easily with people. He earned an associate’s degree in Horticulture, became a master gardener, and served as president of the Bonsai Society, where his patience, generosity, and knowledge left a lasting impression on many.

Later in life, Patrick founded a new home at the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Gulfport, Mississippi, where he remained surrounded by fellowship, dignity, and the shared bond of service.

Patrick found joy in life’s simple blessings. He loved plants, found peace in painting, and for a time explored beekeeping, always curious and eager to learn. His faith and community were important to him, and he was a devoted member of Handsboro Presbyterian Church.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jacqueline LaNasa, whom he loved deeply and carried in his heart each day. Their enduring bond remained a guiding presence in his life.

Patrick leaves behind a family who cherished him deeply. He is survived by his children: Rick LaNasa (Teri), David LaNasa (Maureen), Dayra Henderson (James), Ronda Welsby, and Jackie Dienst (Chris). He was a proud grandfather to Tory Henderson, Stacy Henderson Foster, Jeremy LaNasa, Justin LaNasa, Jonathon LaNasa, Naomi LaNasa, Bryan Welsby, Lauren Perkins, Johnathan Welsby, Jacquelene Burkhardt, Christopher Dienst, and Cody Dienst, and a devoted great-grandfather to Rian LaNasa, Aidan LaNasa, Ryleigh LaNasa, Lucy LaNasa, Bodhi LaNasa, Ryatt LaNasa, Kaelie LaNasa, Tanner Slaughter, Ethan Slaughter, Alice, Ashton, Abigail Burkhardt, Thomas Welsby, Evelyn Welsby, Decker Dienst, Delilah Dienst, and Cody Dienst Jr. He was also blessed with great-great-grandchildren, each a joy to him.

Patrick will be laid to rest alongside his beloved wife Jacqueline at Fort Rosecrans Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, California, where he will receive military honors befitting a life of faithful service, enduring love, and quiet devotion.

Riemann Family Funeral Home of Biloxi is honored to serve the LaNasa family during this time.