Joseph Reynold Bosarge, Sr.

Joseph Reynold "Ronnie" Bosarge, Sr., 88, of D'Iberville, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, craftsmanship, and devotion to his family, friends, and community.

Born on November 18, 1937, Ronnie was a lifelong resident of D'Iberville and a proud member of one of the area's pioneering families. A gifted craftsman and talented boat builder, he spent much of his life creating and repairing boats, earning the respect of all who knew him for his skill, work ethic, and attention to detail. Working with his hands brought him great pride, and his craftsmanship reflected the patience, determination, and integrity that defined his character. Ronnie continued his passion for boat building through his career at Ingalls Shipbuilding, where his dedication and expertise contributed to a lifetime of meaningful work along the Gulf Coast. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the maritime industry and the art of boat building, he was inducted into the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum Hall of Fame, an honor that celebrated both his craftsmanship and his enduring impact on the maritime heritage of the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Ronnie shared 48 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Ethel Marie Faurie Bosarge. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, and cherished memories. In the last decade of his life, Ronnie found companionship and friendship with Peggy Fayard, whose presence brought him comfort, happiness, and support.

A proud member of the D'Iberville community, Ronnie was part of the very first D'Iberville High School football team. He remained proud of his role as an original Warrior and enjoyed sharing stories from those early days of D'Iberville football. His support for the Warriors continued throughout his life, and he remained one of their most loyal fans until his passing.

Ronnie was also a devoted supporter of the University of Mississippi and a lifelong Ole Miss Rebels fan. Few things brought him more joy than cheering on the Rebels and sharing that passion with his family. He took tremendous pride in the accomplishments of his loved ones, especially knowing that his son, Joey; daughter-in-law, Monique; and grandson, Parrish, were all graduates of the University of Mississippi. His granddaughter, Connely, will graduate this December with plans to continue at the University of Mississippi Law School; and his granddaughter, Channing, is planning to begin her Ole Miss journey after graduation from high school. Their goals and accomplishments were a source of immense pride, and he never missed an opportunity to celebrate both their achievements and his family's enduring connection to Ole Miss.

Known for his strong work ethic, quiet wisdom, and caring heart, Ronnie touched the lives of many. He valued family above all else and found happiness in the simple moments spent with those he loved. He will be remembered for his craftsmanship, his love of the water, his unwavering support of Ole Miss and the D'Iberville Warriors, and the lessons he passed on through his example of hard work, loyalty, and perseverance.

In addition to his parents, Ferrell and Leola Hebert Bosarge, Ronnie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ethel Marie Faurie Bosarge; his daughters, Tina Bosarge and Julie Bosarge; his granddaughter, Ronika Showalter; his grandson, Gary Brown; and his siblings, Ferrell Bosarge, Jr., Jerries Bosarge, Carroll Bosarge, and Jenell Nungesser.

He is survived by his son, Joey Bosarge and wife, Monique; his grandchildren, Parrish Bosarge, Connely Bosarge, Channing Bosarge, Scott Bosarge, Shantelle Showalter, Tisha Henson, and Chad Turnage; eight great-grandchildren; his companion, Peggy Fayard; and numerous extended family members and friends who will forever cherish the memories they shared with him.

Though Ronnie will be deeply missed, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His family finds comfort in the legacy he leaves behind—a life well lived, a family well loved, and a community made better by his presence.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 11:30 A.M. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, D’Iberville. Friends may visit 10:00 A.M. – 11:30 A.M. Interment will follow at D’Iberville Memorial Park. Following services, there will be a Celebration of Life at the Fleur de Lis Society-The French Club at 182 Howard Avenue in Biloxi.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Joseph Reynold "Ronnie" Bosarge, Sr.