Zelma Douglas

Zelma Douglas, age 92 of Gulfport, passed away on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Pearl Ozimack and Sam Hall; her children, James Douglas, John Douglas, Michael Douglas and Sandy Richards; and her nine siblings.

Zelma is survived by her daughter, Diana (Donald) Owens; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Born and raised in Stickney, West Virginia, Zelma graduated from high school there and was one of ten children. Growing up in such a large family during that time came with its challenges, but it helped shape the hardworking, strong, and compassionate woman she would become. She remained in West Virginia until the age of 33, when she moved to Gulfport, Mississippi, where she made her home for the rest of her life.

Zelma began her career in real estate as an agent and, through her hard work and determination, she established and operated her own real estate brokerage company for many years. She was deeply committed to her profession and was honored with a place in the Real Estate Hall of Fame. She also served the Real Estate Association in many leadership roles, including president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer.

She was a proud member of the Kiwanis Club and was an active part of the Gulfport community. She made history as the first woman to serve as president of the Krewe of Gemini in 1995 and was the 24th Queen of Gemini in 1993.

Outside of her professional and community accomplishments, Zelma’s faith was at the heart of her life. She was a faithful member of New Hope Baptist Church, where she loved her church family and devoted herself to serving the Lord. She wholeheartedly believed in living according to the Bible and tried to live her life with honesty, kindness, and integrity. When Zelma gave her word, she kept it.

Zelma enjoyed reading, taking walks, and serving her church. She also loved to travel, with England and Alaska being two of her favorite destinations. But her greatest joy was her family. She loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren dearly and spent countless hours with them. Having known the challenges of growing up in a large family, she worked tirelessly to give her children and grandchildren opportunities for a better life. Her family was her greatest source of pride and happiness.

Zelma was an exceptionally hardworking woman who believed in treating everyone with kindness and respect. She gave generously of her time, kept her promises, and lived her life with strong convictions and a caring heart.

She was deeply loved by her family, friends, church family, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her life touched many people, and her memory will be cherished for generations to come. She will be dearly missed.

Funeral service will be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at New Hope Baptist Church, 17430 Landon Road, Gulfport, MS 39503, with visitation beginning at 2:00 pm. Graveside service will follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

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