Rosa Jane O'Bannon

Rosa Jane (Martin) O’Bannon, 82, a beloved member of our family, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, in her home, surrounded by her loved ones.

She was born in Gulfport on May 30, 1943, to Calvin Martin, Sr. and Willie Ray (King) Martin. She was a housewife. Rosa was a devoted wife, mother, sister and grandmother. Her heart was filled with love and compassion for others, and she had a remarkable ability to bring joy and positivity into the lives of those around her.

She was known for her visionary spirit and her talent for transforming spaces. She has a keen eye for decorating homes, arranging flowers, planning weddings and organizing parties. Her creativity and attention to detail made others seek her out for her input.

One of Rosa’s greatest passions was her beautiful yard. She took immense pride in her flowers, fountains, and the unique “situations” she created throughout her yard. Her yard was a testament to her love for nature and her ability to create a harmonious and inviting outdoor space.

Rosa was a devout Christian and a proud member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Gulfport, MS. She dedicated her time to teaching Sunday school and vacation bible school. Additionally, she was an active member of the Evening Guild of St. Matthew where she contributed to the church’s events, including Essenfest and the Christmas play.

Rosa’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew her because of her kindness, creativity and unwavering dedication to her family and community.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband of 50 years, Louis Hewes O’Bannon, Jr. (Butch).

Survivors include her children; Louis Hewes O’Bannon, III (Christine) of Gulfport, MS; and Dr. Shawn Patrick O’Bannon of Oxford, MS; two grandsons Magruder Martin O’Bannon and Ensign Corban Payton O’Bannon, both of Gulfport; and her brother, Calvin Martin, Jr. (Claudia) of Simpsonville, SC.

Visitation will be Monday, December 8, 2025, from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, O’Neal Road, Chapel, Gulfport. Interment will be in Coalville Cemetery.

Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, O’Neal Road, Gulfport, is honored to serve the family of Rosa Jane O’Bannon.