Ralph Paul Autrey

Ralph Paul Autrey, Sr. (aka “Curly,” “Cowboy”, and “Pa-Pa”), age 85, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, passed away on June 20, 2014, from a sudden accident at his home. Ralph was born in Garland, Arkansas, on July 19, 1928. He graduated from Texarkana High School and attended the University of Arkansas. He was a lifelong Razorback fan and active alumni of Kappa Sigma Fraternity. Ralph served in the United States Military, in both the Army and Marine Corps, and was a Korean War veteran. He received a bachelor’s degree from McNeese State University. He was born and raised a Methodist and was a lifetime devotee. He was preceded in death by his son, Mark Hurst Autrey; his parents, Ernest and Blanche Autrey; his brothers, LeRoy and Harry Autrey; and, his sister, Marilyn Autrey Masse. Ralph leaves behind his loving wife, Jonnie Hurst Autrey; his son, Ralph Paul Autrey, Jr.; his son, Stephen Wayne Autrey and his wife Sally; his daughter, Ann Autrey Jones and her husband John Kevin Jones; three grandchildren, Tyler Moore Kostal (Ryan), Anthony Paul Wisdom Autrey, and Megan Elizabeth Jones; a step-granddaughter; and, countless friends, neighbors, and loved ones. Ralph was a very loving father and generous provider for many. In celebration of his life, visitation will be held at Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home on Porter Avenue in Ocean Springs, MS, on Tuesday, June 24, 2014, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A veteran memorial graveside service will be held at the Biloxi National Cemetery on Veterans Avenue in Biloxi, MS, on Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at 9:00 am. The family would like to express their gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the Ocean Springs Hospital ER and MICU for the treatment, care, and hospitality shown during this trying time. Ralph would have been grateful for the excellent care he received. Also, many thanks to Dr. Corey McNamee for his relentless efforts.