Richard Clarke Handy

Richard Clarke Handy, better known as “Duke,” of Biloxi, passed away on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at the age of 85.

Duke was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts. He joined the Navy in 1956, three days before his 18^th birthday, gladly serving his country aboard the U.S.S. Boston.  He later worked for the U.S. Postal Service in Springfield, Massachusetts for over 30 years, and moved to the Mississippi Gulf Coast in 2000 to enjoy his retirement.

Duke was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He leaves behind his wife, Cheryl Keevers Handy, four children – Heather Bordeaux (Lou) of Bernardston, Massachusetts; Christine Aldrich (David) of Surprise, Arizona; Don Campfield of Exeter, New Hampshire; and Jamie Bates (James) of Gulfport, as well as 12 grandchildren: Michael Malenfant (Alyssa); RJ Malenfant (Anna); Kayla Stoddard (Cameron Park); Luke Pappas; Riane Ragno (Noel Ntoro); Téa Pappas (Peter Straub); Ella Campfield (Tyler Bird); Kylie Campfield; Matthew Campfield; Jacob Bordeaux; Joshua Bordeaux; and Keevers Bates. Duke was delighted to welcome his first two great-grandchildren recently, William Case Malenfant and Cora Jane Park, to the family. He was also a friend to many, several of whom he considered chosen family, including Rick and Joan Hudson, and Carol Marta and Ron Posladek.

The family would like to thank SAAD Healthcare for their attentive assistance these past six months. 

A private memorial celebration will be held at a later date.

Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home, O'Neal Road, Gulfport, is honored to serve the Handy family.