William Thames

William Dean Thames, age 85 of Gulfport, passed away on Friday, March 20, 2020.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Debra Mines; his father, Wilbur Thames; his mother, Dorothy Thames; his sister, Betty Galyean; his brother, Wilbur “Skip” Thames, Jr.; and his sister, Patricia “Patty” Hanson.

William is survived by his wife of 64 years, Kathryn Pearl Thames; his children, Richard D. Thames (Charlene) and Carla M. Thames-Stephens (Jon B.); his grandchildren, Danna Phillips, Christopher Slade, Natasha, Cummings, Joseph Slade, Catherine Ates, Erica Meynier, and Alton Thames; his great grandchildren, Michael Phillips, Brianna Phillips, Rylan Burch, Giovanni Blake, Jayce Cummings, Lucas Meynier, Natalie Cummings, Austin Cummings, Presley Ates, Evan Meynier, Paxton Thames, Kinsley Ates, Auburn Slade, Logan Slade, Debbie Slade, and JJ Slade.

He served our country faithfully under the United States Navy until 1952 aboard the USS Roanoke. He worked many years as an Ironworker, where he helped erect famous landmarks, such as the the Superdome and Coliseum. While living in Texas through the 1980’s, he worked his way up to being a Vice President of a construction company that helped with additions to the Astrodome.

William was the best storyteller. Amongst telling his many exciting stories, he also loved riding horses, fishing, and watching his football and westerns. Most of all, he loved being with his family and friends. He was a Deacon at Pass Road Baptist Church and Edgewater Christian Fellowship Church for many years before retiring.

We would like to thank the doctors and nurses of the Veteran’s Administration for all of their efforts in his medical care.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations made in his name to the Biloxi Veteran’s Health Care System.

Services have been postponed until a later date.

RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, is serving the family.