Florence "Rilene" Lapre

Florence “Rilene” Lapre, 67, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on April 3rd, 2026, surrounded by the deep love of her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life was a reflection of strength, compassion, and unwavering love.

Born on March 8, 1959, in Camden, Arkansas, she was the cherished daughter of James George (Ina) and Peggy Knight.

Rilene shared 32 beautiful years of marriage with her beloved husband, John Lapre. Their life together was filled with love, laughter, and a steadfast devotion not only to one another, but to the family they built and nurtured.

She was a proud and loving mother to Keith Savoie, Nick Lapre (Penny), Britny Richoux (Scott), Angelle Vice, and Charmaine Barrilleaux (Jeffrey). Her children were the center of her world, and she poured her heart into every moment spent with them.

Rilene’s greatest joy was found in her growing family. She leaves behind her treasured grandchildren: Hunter, Nicholas, Andrew, Kylee, Layla, Aubrey, Avery, Graham, Gabriela, Lillie, Brayleigh, Brenna, and Hayden; as well as her adored great-grandchildren: Beau, Bennett, Brynlee, Hudson, and Berkeley. She held a special place in her heart as an advocate for Bennett’s Story.

Rilene is survived by her three siblings, James George, Debbie George, and Thomas (Angela) George.

Rilene found true happiness in the simple and meaningful moments with her family, decorating to the extreme for Christmas, laughter filled gatherings, and making memories that would last a lifetime. She especially loved trips to Disney World, Gatlinburg, pageants, and the beach, where her family time was most treasured.

She will be remembered for her kind heart, her fierce strength, and the unconditional love she gave so freely. Rilene had a rare gift for making everyone feel seen, valued, and deeply cared for. Her presence brought comfort, her laughter brought joy, and her love will remain a guiding light in the lives of all who knew her.

The family would like to thank St. Joseph’s Hospice, St. Mary’s Catholic Church clergy, and caregivers Staci Hensley & Honey, Chelsea, Samantha (Sam), Marisa, Jayla, Carolyn, Kat, Kimbley, Dominique, Chapman Jeremie, and Father “G” for their love and support during the last year.

Services will be held on April 9, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Biloxi, Mississippi, beginning at 10:00 a.m., with Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Floral Hills in Gulfport, Mississippi. Refreshments will be provided in St. Mary’s Catholic Church Hall following the services.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bennett’s Story Benefit Car Show. https://givebutter.com/bennettsstory

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He restores my soul.” – Psalm 23:1, 3

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, O’Neal Road, Gulfport is honored to serve the family of Florence “Rilene” Lapre.