Charles Lang, Jr.

Dr. Charles V. Lang, Jr., age 85, of Biloxi, MS., died Monday, April 17, 2006, in Biloxi. Dr. Lang was born on October 19, 1920, in Carrollton, AL. He graduated from Carrollton High School and received a Bachelor Science degree from Alabama Polytechnic Institute. He furthered his education by receiving his Dr. of Veterinary Medicine Degree in 1950. Dr. Lang served in the U.S. Air Force for 28 years and was a veteran of both World War II and Vietnam. He received the Purple Heart, two air medals and the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service in World War II. He was wounded while piloting a B-24 bomber on a mission over Hungary where he was shot down and rescued out of the Danube River by the Russians. He eventually returned to the war. After the war and upon receiving his degree, Dr. Lang continued his military service and was stationed in numerous places throughout the country during his 28 years in the military. He retired in 1969 and returned to Biloxi, opening Coast Animal Clinic in Ocean Springs, MS. He practiced there until recently. Dr. Lang was a member of the Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association, serving as the National Delegate for many years. He was President of the Association in 1971. He was active in the Biloxi and Ocean Springs Lions Club for many years and served in various leadership roles within the Club while he was a member. Dr. Lang was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Biloxi, where his late wife, Margie, served as the church organist for many years. He was also a member of the Coffee Club of Ocean Springs where he enjoyed visiting with his many friends. Dr. Lang was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Margie Burgin Lang, his son, Porter B. Lang, parents, Charles V. Lang, Sr. and Myrtie Mabel St. John, stepmother, Velma Lang, and two brothers, William Lang and Russell Duke. Survivors include two sons, Charles V. Lang III of Mobile, AL. and Philip T. Lang of Jackson, MS., daughter, Frances I. Lang Ramsey of Chesapeake, VA., eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Visitation will be on Thursday, April 20, 2006, from 11 AM - 12 Noon, with a 12 Noon church service, all at the First Baptist Church of Biloxi. Burial will follow at Biloxi National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family prefers memorials be made to the Charles and Margie Lang Scholarship Fund, (CML Scholarship Fund) Cottage Hill Christian Academy, 7355 Creekwood Drive, Mobile, AL., 36695. The family would especially like to thank Jim and Helen Sumrall for their care, love and support of Dr. Lang during his last years. The Ocean Springs Chapel of Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. View and sign register book at www.bradfordokeefe.com.