Benjamin Virgil House Jr.

Mr. Benjamin Virgil House, Jr., 85, was called home to his Lord and Savior on May 28, 2025. A resident of Ocean Springs, MS, Benjamin was originally from Portsmouth, VA by way of Scotland Neck, NC.

A man of honor, Benjamin was a faithful and loyal husband, father, and friend. He dedicated his professional life to service as a civil servant with the United States Navy, exemplifying a spirit of adventure and commitment with service over three decades in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba; Naples, Italy; Sigonella, Sicily; La Maddalena, Italy; and various assignments in Virginia and Florida. As a testament to his professionalism and the impact he had among those with whom he served, he received the distinguished honor to be awarded the titles of Honorary Navy Chief and Honorary SEABEE. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he served as a mentor and guide—as a Little League Baseball Coach shaping the lives of young men, and as a respected leader in his Masonic Lodge, attaining the honor of 32nd Degree Freemasonry and serving as a former Worshipful Master.

A man known for an open and warm heart, Benjamin accepted all that came into his path as a friend and, for those willing, as family. His love was not limited simply to blood relatives, but he embraced without hesitation all those willing to accept his love. A devoted member of the Beauvoir United Methodist Church, Benjamin embraced his faith with passion and sincerity. By accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior, he was assured an eternal promise of peace and joy in the presence of the one true God. Although his departure leaves an irreplaceable void, we find comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with the love of his life, freed from all earthly pain, and now rejoicing in Divine Grace.

Benjamin’s life of service, mentorship, and unwavering faith will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory is a lasting blessing, a guiding light for those he leaves behind. May his legacy remain a source of comfort and strength, and may he rest in eternal peace.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Judith Marie House; his parents, Benjamin Virgil House, Sr and Etta Mae Yandle House; and his infant sister, Jo Etta House.

He is survived by his brother, Franklin Thomas House of Portsmouth, VA; and his children, Pamala Viccellio (Charles) of Melbourne Beach, FL; Michelle Lott (Ray) of Ocean Springs, MS, and Benjamin V. House, III (Lyda) of Orlando, FL. He was the proud grandfather to seven grandchildren - Joshua, Anthony, Chris, Megan, Justin, Matthew, and Ari and three great-grandchildren – Aiden, Sarah Jane, and Ashlyn.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters in Norfolk, VA, the American Heart Association, or to the Shriner’s Children.

Services will be held at 3pm on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at the Beauvoir United Methodist Church in Biloxi, MS.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Benjamin Virgil House, Jr.