Alan French

Alan French, 47, of d’Iberville, was called home to be with the Lord on December 29, 2020. Alan was born December 18, 1973. He was a lifelong Coast resident and a graduate of St. Martin High School, where he was a celebrated athlete and admired classmate. After graduation Alan enlisted and served in the United States Army, followed by a 26-year career with Cable One. In 2001 Alan married the love of his life, and together they enjoyed a beautiful family life. Alan was known by many names to all that knew and loved him. He was called husband, father, son, brother, and friend, but many others were fortunate enough to affectionately call him Coach. He had a true servant’s heart and volunteered countless hours to various local sports programs and youth leagues. He had a true talent and gift for coaching and made a huge impact on so many young lives, both on and off the field. Many sports programs were successful due to his hard work and dedication. His beloved Warriors were a big part of his life and he was the backbone of the Chain Gang, a special group of dedicated fans that made the Warrior’s Friday Night Lights come to life. Aside from the many year-round sports, Mardi Gras and boating were the other two times of the year that he looked forward to. He also enjoyed race cars, a successful venture and avenue where he made friends and many cherished memories. His ideal family vacation was to follow his wife and sons cruising around the Caribbean on various cruise ships. Alan was a man of great character. He was charismatic, kind, full of fun and always had an encouraging word, or a minute to lend help to a friend. He enjoyed life and made the most of every moment he was given. The simple mention of a good time or a good meal and Alan was ready to “LEGGO” with a smile on his face and an excitement around him that was contagious. His friends and family were his world and he never knew a stranger. Alan is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Herbert and Gloria Jean (Pam) French; his father-in-law, William “Billy” Forehand; brother-in-law, Richard Kessler; and Mawmaw Bern. He is survived by his devoted wife of 19 years, Melanie Forehand French; his sons, Landon French, Kyle (Elizabeth) Bennett and Jacob Bennett; sister, Anne Kessler; niece, Brooke (Jonathan) Rountree; nephew, Brett Kessler; step-mother, Connie French; nieces, Macey and Lanie Forehand; mother-in-law, Marlene Forehand; brothers-in-law, Les and Jeremy (Janet) Forehand; three great nephews, James and Brantley Rountree, and Gabriel Kessler; and his four legged babies, Bennie, Harley, Sassy, and Lulu. Alan was also blessed with many cousins, extended family, and friends. In lieu of flowers, please feel free make a donation to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association. Funeral Service will be held on Monday, January 4, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at New Life Family Church on Popp's Ferry Road in Biloxi. Friends are invited to visit 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. A private graveside service will be held at Biloxi National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held at d’Iberville High School Stadium at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 8, 2021. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, Howard Avenue in Biloxi, is honored to serve the French family.