Earl Russell April

Earl Russell April, known to everyone simply as “April,” passed away, December 9, 2025, peacefully at the age of 91 in Biloxi, Mississippi at the Veterans Hospital. He was born in New Orleans, LA. on October 18, 1934, to Bessie Mae April Hornsky and James William April.

Surviving relatives of Mr. April include his daughters, Linda Ann Feranda (Larry), Betty Jo Fortier (Wayne), Joanna Earline Fields (Pete) and Elizabeth Rose Noble (Donnie); one son, Earl Russell April, Jr (Benita); 8 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; 3 great great-grandchildren; and by his best friend and partner-in-crime, James "Jim" Singler.

Preceding him in death are his wife, Josephine "Joann" Annie Catchot April; his daughters, Toni Lee April and Constance "Connie Margret Ferrill" (deceased Prentiss "Scooter" Ferrill); one grandson, Charles "RayRay" Raymond Kirschenheuter, Jr; his brothers, J.C. Doe, (Houma), Robert (Bob) April, Sr (Chalmette) and David April, (Kenner); one sister, Marie Cooper (Belle Chasse); and his favorite nephew, David April, Jr (Kenner).

Mr. April was a carpenter, he worked for his grandfather-in-law, a mechanic at Jimmy Holders Garage on Pass Road, a Janitor and Bus Driver for Beauvoir Elementary School, went full time at Ingalls Shipyard from 1963 until he retired in 1998. He was a combination man (Welder, Tacker, and Burner).

Mr. April lived a life filled with humor, kindness, and a charm that touched every person he met. People often asked him what his real first name was, and he would answer with the same easy warmth each time: “Just call me April.” That simple phrase became more than a nickname—it became a reflection of his joyful spirit and the welcoming way he carried himself through life.

During his time in care, April quickly became a favorite among the nursing staff. He charmed the heart of the nursing corps with his friendly smile, his lighthearted jokes, and the gentle way he brightened even the busiest days. Many times, he would slip away to the Fleur De Lis Society/ French Club, and upon returning he would carry a surprise: a cake for the nurses, a small gesture that always lifted their spirits.

Nurse DeLina, who adored him dearly, often teased him with a grin, saying he was cheating at the card game—a playful accusation that April always met with that familiar twinkle in his eye. Their laughter often echoed down the hallway, a reminder of the joy he brought wherever he went.

April will be deeply missed. He leaves behind not only the memories of his kindness and generosity, but also the smiles he inspired and the friendships he formed. To know April was to love him, and his presence will be treasured forever by all who were fortunate enough to share in his company.

May he rest in peace, remembered always for his warmth, humor, and the special way he made every day a little brighter.

Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, Howard Avenue in Biloxi at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Mike Austin and Andrew Kowoiski officiating. Friends are invited to visit one hour prior. Interment will follow at D'Iberville Memorial Park.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Earl Russell April.