Joe H. Culpepper III

Joe H. Culpepper III, age 80, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away peacefully at his home on September 14, 2026, with Johnnie, his beloved wife of 57 years, by his side.

Joe and Johnnie's story began at Gulfport High School, where they first became friends. Their friendship blossomed into love during college, beginning a life together that would span nearly six decades.

A talented athlete, Joe accepted a football scholarship to Mississippi State University. Shortly after he and Johnnie married, he entered active duty with the National Guard, serving as a captain and squad commander.

Together, Joe and Johnnie built a loving family. He is survived by his wife, Johnnie; his brother, Bill Culpepper; his sister-in-law, Leisa Culpepper; his brother-in-law, Chuck Smith; their daughter, Nancy Culpepper Yeager and her husband, Chris; their son, Joe Clint Culpepper and his wife, Rebecca; and four grandchildren, Ethan Todd, Caden Culpepper, Catelyn Yeager, and Emily Culpepper. He is preceded in death by his dad, Joe H. Culpepper Jr.; his mother, Willie Mae Culpepper; his brother, Don Culpepper; his sisters-in-law, Sue Culpepper and Joel Smith; and his brother-in-law, Ignatius Micele.

Joe had a presence when he entered a room, everyone knew he was there, and people naturally gathered around him. His authoritative character was balanced by a warm, playful side that endeared him to family and his many friends. He was deeply loved, and others were captivated by his confidence, humor, and unmistakable personality.

Gifted with his hands, Joe could fix just about anything. Family and friends often called upon him for help, knowing they could rely on his skill, ingenuity, and generosity.

Joe grew up in the South, where he spent his early years fishing along the Florida Panhandle with his brothers, Bill and Don. He carried his love of fishing and hunting with him throughout his life.

Joe and family are faithful members of St. James Catholic Church. He lived a rich and fulfilling life - one surrounded by the people he loved and filled with the experiences many dream of having. His strength, playful spirit, generosity, and larger-than-life presence will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. James Catholic Church, 366 Cowan Road, Gulfport, MS 39507 on Friday, September 18, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Friends are invited to visit two hours prior. Interment will follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Joe H. Culpepper III.