Walter Olen Motes

Walter “Walt” Olen Motes, born January 4, 1969 in Ocean Springs, Mississippi passed away on April 20, 2024. 

Walter was a lifelong resident of Vancleave, MS and graduated from Vancleave High School. He loved playing sports, mainly baseball and football, while in school. Walter was employed with Fred Fayard Inc. working with heavy machinery under the supervision of Tommy Tootle Jr. As a young boy, Walter’s two uncles, Judson and Sam Parnell, taught him how to use the same machinery he worked with later in life. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing and hunting.

Walter is survived by his parents, Wayne and Margaret Motes; and two siblings, Mitchell Wayne (Florence) Motes Jr. and Michael Dewayne (Laura) Motes.  Three nieces, Skylar Motes, Jessica Motes Walker, and Chley Motes. Two great nephews, Luke Walker Jr., and Ian Crane.

A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Thursday, April 25, 2024 at First Baptist Church of Vancleave officiated by Reverend Bennett Coker. Friends are invited to visit one hour prior. Interment will follow at Vancleave Cemetery #1.

The family would like to thank Reverend Randy McKey, Reverend Bennett Coker, the first responders who came to Walter’s aid, and the nursing staff and doctors at Ocean Springs Hospital. Also, a special recognition to Jerry Wages, who was Walter’s T-ball coach. 

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Walter “Walt” Olen Motes.