Robert William "Billy" Dingman, Jr.

Robert William “Billy” Dingman Jr., 56, of Gulfport, MS passed peacefully at home on August 8, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Elizabeth Dingman; his cherished son, Jack Mann; his parents, Robert Dingman Sr. and Patricia Dingman; his sister, Patti Schankin; his sister-in-law, Heather Dedeaux; his goddaughter, Holly Schankin; nieces, Holly Schankin, Savannah Landrum, Madyson Landrum, Caleigh Landrum, and Lilly Landrum; nephews, Drew (Louise) Schankin, Tyler Schankin, and Kal’El Brown; his grandnieces, Presley Schankin and Connley Blackwell; his grandnephews, McCoy Schankin and Kasey Schankin; along with a host of loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Fred and Ida Dingman, Dick Fairley, Patricia Fairley-King, and VG King; and brother-in-law, Raymond Schankin.

Born the longest baby on record at the time on June 17, 1969, in Oswego, New York, Billy built a life defined by hard work, loyalty, and an unmatched love for his family. Billy’s greatest pride was his family — his beloved wife, Elizabeth Dingman, and his son, Jack Mann. He was his son’s biggest fan, especially on the baseball field, and his passion for sports was something he joyfully shared with those around him. If there was a game to be watched, Billy was there with a keen eye, a loud cheer, and a few unfiltered opinions to share-the kind you might not have asked for, but always got the truth from.

Known for his big voice, passionate spirit, and his unapologetic way of telling it like it is, Billy lived life with intensity and authenticity. You never had to wonder where you stood with him, and his friends and family loved him all the more for it.

Billy’s life was a testament to speaking your mind, standing up for what you believe in, and loving your people fiercely.

Services to celebrate Billy’s life will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at 6:00 pm at Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Homes on O’Neal Rd in Gulfport, MS with friends being welcomed at 5:00 pm. Friends and family are invited to gather, share stories, and honor the life of a man who lived boldly and loved deeply.

The family wishes to thank his family, medical team: Dr. Allison Wall, NP Brittany Hicks, and Dr. Walter Suroweic, hospice nurse, Karla, his employer, Pat Fore with PF3 Logistics LLC, and dear friends who supported Billy with care and compassion throughout his courageous battle.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Robert William “Billy” Dingman Jr.