Justin Michael Vuyovich

Justin Michael Vuyovich, age 46, passed away on Friday, October 2, 2026.

Born on April 18, 1980, Justin was the son of Gia Sekul Knight and the late Jack Vuyovich Jr. He grew up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and attended St. Martin High School in Ocean Springs, where he was a talented athlete who excelled in baseball and basketball.

A gifted baseball player, Justin was especially known for his abilities on the pitcher’s mound. His talent led him to continue his baseball career at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, where he played for the Bulldogs.

Known affectionately to friends as “Vin” and “Vinny,” and also remembered by the unforgettable nickname “the Croatian Crippler,” Justin was much more than a talented athlete. He had a big heart and a kindhearted nature that left a lasting impression on those who knew him. The many stories, memories, and heartfelt tributes shared by his friends are a testament to the friendships he made and the lives he touched.

Justin will be remembered for the person he was, the friendships he made, and the love he shared with those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, classmates, and teammates.

Justin was also known and remembered fondly by many in the D’Iberville community, where he spent much of his time. His family extends heartfelt appreciation to the employees and friends at the D’Iberville Walmart and Waffle House, as well as the many kind people at local businesses throughout the community who showed Justin kindness and compassion over the years. Those simple acts of kindness meant more than words can express.

Justin is survived by his mother, Gia Sekul Knight; his sisters, Danielle and Lauren Vuyovich; his brother, Aden Knight; his nephew, Carter Henson; his maternal grandmother, Diane Sekul; and his paternal grandparents, Jack and Louise Vuyovich, Sr.

He is also survived by his aunts and uncles, Cindy (Harold) Knotts, Peggy (Douglas) Gollott, June (Phillip) Bond, Kari (Rocky) Sekul Ransonet, and Michelle (Jesse) Sekul Kanode; his cousins, George Kanode, Ivan Nicholas Kovacevich, Rumor White, and Jude White; and many other cousins and extended family members who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Vuyovich Jr.; his maternal grandfather, George Sekul; and Billie (Jud) Robertson and Jan Vuyovich.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 15, 2026, at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home on Howard Avenue in Biloxi. Friends are invited to gather from 1:30 p.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution toward funeral expenses may do so by clicking here.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Justin Michael Vuyovich.