Jerry Paul Boudreaux

Jerry Paul Boudreaux, 95, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2026, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of faith, love, and service to others.

Born in Morgan City, Louisiana, Jerry was the son of L. P. Boudreaux and Lelia Seither Boudreaux. He graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in Morgan City and continued his education at Louisiana State University, St. Mary’s Seminary in Kentucky, Notre Dame University in New Orleans, and the Pontifical North American College in Rome, Italy. He later earned a master’s degree in social work from Louisiana State University.

Jerry’s deep and unwavering faith in Jesus Christ guided every chapter of his extraordinary life. Answering a calling to the Catholic priesthood, he was ordained in Rome, Italy, in December 1957. He served as a priest for approximately fifteen years, including several years at the Vatican in Rome. His years in the priesthood laid the foundation for a lifetime devoted to sharing the Gospel, offering spiritual guidance, and helping others find their way to Christ.

Following his years in the priesthood, Jerry continued his calling to serve others through social work. He held a leadership position in a social work department in Jackson, Mississippi, before accepting a position as a United States federal probation officer in Gulfport. He faithfully served in federal probation for approximately twenty years before retiring.

During his federal career, Jerry established a private Christian counseling practice, combining his professional training with his deep faith to help individuals and families facing life’s most difficult challenges. He continued counseling long after retiring from federal service, offering guidance and encouragement to others well into his eighties.

A devoted servant of Christ, Jerry touched countless lives through his ministry, counseling, and personal witness. He helped individuals struggling with addiction, gambling, and other hardships, always seeking to offer hope, compassion, and the healing power of faith. His home and office were places where people gathered for prayer, fellowship, and godly wisdom. He was a steadfast warrior for Jesus, never hesitating to share his faith or extend a helping hand to someone in need.

Jerry also founded a Christian men’s fellowship group that began meeting in his counseling office. Through prayer, fellowship, and a shared devotion to Christ, the men formed lasting bonds. The group continues to meet at St. James Catholic Church in Gulfport, a living testament to his enduring spiritual legacy. In recognition of his faith and service, Jerry was honored as a recipient of the Lumen Christi Award.

In December 1969, Jerry met Joan Furrh, the woman who would become his beloved wife. They were engaged in February 1970 and married on August 22, 1970, in Dallas, Texas. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and love, sharing more than 56 years of marriage.

Despite his many professional and spiritual accomplishments, one of Jerry’s greatest joys was being a father. He was an extraordinary dad who made time for his children, filling their childhood with adventure, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Whether exploring the outdoors, playing together, or building a zip line in the backyard, Jerry made life an adventure and made sure his children knew how deeply they were loved.

His family will remember not only his wisdom and strength of faith, but also his playful spirit, his kindness, his compassion, and the countless ways he demonstrated his love. He taught by example that faith was not simply something to believe, but something to live.

Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan Furrh Boudreaux, who passed away on September 9, 2026, and his parents, L. P. Boudreaux and Lelia Seither Boudreaux.

He is survived by his three children: David J. Boudreaux (Casey Tolar) of Riverview, Florida; Jennifer B. Morrell (Willard Morrell) of Gulfport, Mississippi; and Jamie B. Varnado (Casey R. Varnado) of McHenry, Mississippi.

He is also survived by his eight grandchildren: Devin Nguyen, Hannah May, Gabrielle Boudreaux, Cassidy Varnado, Caitlin Varnado, Colin Varnado, Madison Tolar, and McKenzie Tolar; and his great-granddaughter, Natalie Sophia Nguyen.

Jerry’s life was a beautiful testimony to the power of faith, the importance of family, and the difference one person can make in the lives of others. His influence lives on through his children, grandchildren, the many people he led to Christ, those he counseled, and the fellowship he established.

Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that his earthly work is complete and that he is now resting in the loving arms of his Savior.

A funeral service celebrating Jerry’s life will be held on Friday, November 20, 2026, at St. James Catholic Church, 366 Cowan Road, Gulfport, Mississippi.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be at St. James Cemetery in Gulfport.  Following the services, family and friends are invited to gather for a time of fellowship, remembrance, and celebration of Jerry’s life at the home of Christin Smith, 2808 Palmer Drive, Gulfport, MS 39507.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home, O'Neal Road, Gulfport, is honored to serve the family of Jerry Paul Boudreaux.