Gentry "Buddy" Cole, Jr.

Gentry “Buddy” Cole Jr., age 81, of Saucier, passed away on Monday, September 29, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

As his doctor described in his final days, Buddy lived his life exactly the way he wanted—filled with love for his family, his country, and LSU football. He never missed a chance to dance and sing along to classic country music, filling rooms with both joy and laughter.

Buddy’s passion for the outdoors was evident in his love of hunting and horse racing, while his professional life reflected years of dedication and hard work with Southern Company, from which he retired. Buddy also faithfully served his country in the U.S. Army. He was drafted into the during the Vietnam War, where he profoundly carried out his service in the 1st Infantry Division, “The Big Red One.”

Buddy will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to family, and the way he embraced life fully — whether cheering on the Tigers, enjoying the great outdoors, or sharing a song and a dance. His legacy lives on in the love of his children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know him.

Buddy was preceded in death by his parents, Lucille and Gentry Cole Sr.; and his beloved daughter, Mitzi Cole.

He is survived by his three loving children, Joshua (Tiffany) Cole, Cord (Kylie) Cole, and Gentry (Kyle) Jackson; seven cherished grandchildren, Londyn, Gia, and Ari Cole, Ethan, Olivia, and Linen Rae Jackson, and Mitzi-Kate Cole; and his brother, Bill (Chunky) Cole.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 1726 15th Street, Gulfport. Friends may visit one-hour prior to service. Interment will follow at Biloxi National Cemetery with U. S. Army honors. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport is honored to serve the family of Gentry “Buddy” Cole, Jr.