Stephen Alan Taranto

January 9, 1953 — March 25, 2024

Biloxi

Stephen A. "Stevie" Taranto, known affectionately as Gator, passed away on March 25, 2024, at the age of 71. A native of Biloxi and a graduate of Notre Dame High School, Gator ventured to Las Vegas in his twenties, where he built a successful career in gaming management. Eventually, he returned to Biloxi in 1992, drawn back by his love for his hometown and its beautiful sunsets over the Back Bay.

A passionate baseball fan, Gator played a key role in honoring his brother Chris Taranto's no-hit record in the Biloxi Sports Hall of Fame. Gator's life was a series of storied adventures and the kind of tall tales that become local legend. He was renowned for his sense of humor, engaging storytelling, and his ability to light up any room with his presence. He was deeply loved and will be deeply missed.

He joins in rest his parents, John Thomas “Red” Sr. and Doris Moore Taranto, and his three brothers, J.T., Jimmy, and Chris. He leaves behind a daughter, Stephanie Taranto, and her husband, Phil Brown.

A visitation and service to remember Gator will be held on Thursday, April 18th, at the Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home on Howard Avenue, with visitation from 1 to 2pm and the service at 2pm. A Celebration of Life Reception will follow at The Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum until 4:30 where friends and family will gather to share stories, laughter, and perhaps a few of Gator's famed tall tales.

Instead of flowers, Gator and his daughter invite contributions to the Humane Society of South Mississippi, a cause close to Gator's heart. Visit www.hssm.org/donate or call (228) 863-3354.

Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Stephen A. "Stevie" Taranto.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Stephen Alan Taranto, please visit our flower store.

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Service Schedule

Past Services

Visitation

Thursday, April 18, 2024

1:00 - 2:00 pm (Central time)

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home - Howard Avenue

675 Howard Avenue, Biloxi, MS 39530

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