Vessen "Butch" Magee, Jr.

Vessen “Butch” Magee, Jr. was born on January 22, 1941, in Jackson, Mississippi, to Vessen Magee, Sr. and Myrtis McNeill Neelly.

He graduated from Central High School and went on to study at Hinds Junior College, the Mississippi State University extension at Belhaven, and Memphis State University. Butch also served honorably in the United States Navy.

Following his military service, Butch’s passion for photography led him to begin his career with School Pictures in Jackson. He later founded Magee Photography, quickly becoming one of the most sought-after wedding and portrait photographers in central Mississippi. His talent and creative vision earned him a stellar reputation throughout the region.

Butch later joined the Waterways Experiment Station (WES), where he received multiple awards for his photography and high-speed motion picture documentary work. He founded and later served as Director of Emergency Operations at WES until his retirement in 1998.

Photography was a lifelong love for Butch—his family and friends are blessed with countless cherished photos capturing special moments. He was also an accomplished ham radio operator. After earning his Amateur Radio license, he began a journey of global communication, earning numerous certifications and awards from the American Radio Relay League.

A man of faith, Butch was a longtime member of Oak Forest Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon for many years.

Butch was preceded in death by his mother, Myrtis McNeill Neelly; stepfather, Paul E. Neelly; father, Vessen Magee, Sr.; brother, Ronald “Ronnie” C. Magee; and his beloved grey cat, Little Cat.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Katherine “Kay” McCord Magee; daughter, Kathie (Scott) Ladner of Gulfport; son, David (Melanie) Magee of Heath, Texas; and grandchildren Michelle (Andrew) Borho, Amanda Jo (Will) Brand, Michael (Kate) Ladner, Lauren Magee, and Evan Magee; and brother, Dr. Charles (Chuck) V. Magee of Alachua, FL, and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church or charity of your choice.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Pass Christian, is honored to serve the Magee family.