James Philip Caranna

James Philip Caranna, age 76, passed away on Sunday, November 24, 2024 in Gulfport, MS.

Philip was a native and lifelong resident of Gulfport. He was a member of St. James Catholic Church. Philip was a 1965 graduate of Gulfport High School. During the Vietnam War, he served in the U.S. Navy’s 6th Fleet aboard the amphibious USS Chilton APA 38. After military service, Philip graduated from Jefferson Davis Jr. College in 1971. Following a lengthy illness in 1972, he completed training at Addie McBryde Rehabilitation Center for the Blind in Jackson, MS. The next 39 years were spent volunteering with the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department Auxiliary, serving under six administrations and retiring with the rank of lieutenant. The department recognized him many times for his diligence and dedication.

Philip had the privilege of serving on the board of directors for Goodwill Industries for six years where he was an inspiration to many. He was also a member of RSVP of Harrison County for 15 years and a life member of the Blinded Veterans Association.

Philip was preceded in death by his brother, John Joseph Caranna II and his parents, Mary A. Caranna and John Joseph Caranna.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Elizabeth M. Caranna; his siblings, Cynthia C. Mason (Dr. Tom) and Dennis M. Caranna (Jane); and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 29, 2024 at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Biloxi. Friends may visit one-hour prior to Mass. Interment will follow at Biloxi National Cemetery with honors by the U.S. Navy. Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport is honored to serve the Caranna family.

Due to flower restrictions at Biloxi National Cemetery, in lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to St. James Catholic Church, 366 Cowan Road, Gulfport, MS 39507.