S/Sgt. Vernon L. Hess, USAF Retired

S/Sgt. Vernon L. Hess, USAF Retired, age 60, of Biloxi, MS., died Thursday, October 13, 2011, in Biloxi. Mr. Hess was a longtime resident of the community, a member of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church and a life member of the Disabled American Veterans. He retired from the U.S. Air Force with over 20 years of service. He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel B. Hess and Doriis May Rodart Hess. Survivors include his wife, Matilde Hess of Biloxi, MS., daughter, Dora (James) Kettley of Gulfport, MS., son, Samuel (Kris) Hess of Anchorage, Alaska, sister, Tami (James) Wurtz of Independence, MO., seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Visitation will be on Tuesday, October 18, 2011, from 5 pm until 6 pm, with a 6 pm Memorial Mass, all at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Biloxi. In lieu of flowers the family prefers donations be made to the Armed Forces Retirement Home, 1800 Beach Drive, Gulfport, MS. 39507. The Howard Avenue Chapel of Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.