Richard (Dick) Belvel

Richard (Dick) Belvel, age 88, of Biloxi, passed away on Monday, June 5, 2023, at his beloved home of 45 years.

Dick was a longtime resident of the MS Gulf Coast, where he met his wife of 60 years, Virginia Lois Belvel. He was born in Ottumwa Iowa on July 15^th, 1934. He was a graduate of Ottumwa High School. He went on to complete his college education at the University of Southern Mississippi, where he obtained his Bachelor of Science and Master’s degree in Education. He was an active member of Our Lady of Fatima, a loving husband, father and grandfather who will be missed by all that knew him.

Dick joined the United States Air Force after graduating high school, serving his country for 20 years as a Radio Repairman. He received many honors while in the USAF, including being recognized for his overseas service and awarded the Best Ran Organization in the 3403^rd student squadron. He loved his country and was very proud of his service. He retired as a Master Sergeant in 1974.

Dick started his second career as a history and civics teacher, working at Nichols Junior High School, Biloxi High School and St. Martin High School. He made an impact on many of his students who continued to reach out to him throughout his retirement years. He loved to teach and loved his students. During his 19-year career he was voted “Teacher of the Year” by his students, received the Biloxi Educator Award and had a yearbook dedicated to him.

Dick was an athlete his entire life. He was a football quarterback at Ottumwa High School and a legend in his hometown. He received a football, basketball and baseball scholarship, ultimately accepting the football scholarship to Iowa State where he briefly attended college. He also excelled at track and played high jump. He was an avid golfer, loved fishing, hunting, and was an avid reader.

Mr. Belvel was preceded in death by his parents, Rolla and Norma Belvel, and sister Mary Lou Smith.

He is survived by his loving wife, Virginia Lois Belvel; children, Billy Belvel (Judi), Robin Chandler (Greg) and Steve Belvel (Suzi); his grandchildren, Lindsey Belvel and Zachary Belvel; and his sister, Nancy Brasel.

In leui of flowers, the family request those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to St. Vincent De Paul Society-Biloxi, MS-Our Lady of Fatima in his name.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 PM on Friday, June 9, 2023, at Our Lady of Fatima of Biloxi. Friends may visit one hour before. Interment will follow at the Biloxi National Cemetery at 1:30 PM.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Richard (Dick) Belvel.