Robert Ramsey Rockco

Robert Ramsey Rockco was born on August 21, 1943, in Tylertown, Mississippi, to Julius Ramsey and Marty McBeth. Their love for him endured even when their marriage did not, and when he was just a toddler, Robert moved with his mother to Gulfport. There, his mother met Harold Miller, who not only became her husband, but chose Robert as his son. Harold adopted him, and Robert’s family grew to include his stepsister, Carolyn (Winthrop) Turner, siblings Linda Sharp (d. 10/28/23), Hal Miller (d. 4/10/21), Glenn Miller (Pam), and Lisa Moffett (Robert). Later in life, he also gained a stepbrother, Wayne Dillon, through his father’s remarriage.

Robert graduated from Gulfport High School and Perkinston Junior College before earning his Bachelor of Engineering from Mississippi State University. While at MSU, he joined the U.S. Marines and proudly served in the Vietnam War. After receiving an honorable discharge, he returned to finish his degree and went to work for Chevron before joining the 1939th Radar and Communication Squadron at Keesler Air Force Base.

On one of his returns from temporary duty, he came home with a full beard—and his young daughter didn’t recognize him. That moment stayed with him and was one of the reasons he decided to change course. Robert transitioned to the Civil Engineering Squadron’s Energy Management Control System (EMCS) at Keesler, where his dedication and leadership eventually led to his role as Chief of Maintenance Engineering for the 81st Civil Engineering Squadron. In 1994, he was honored with the Civilian Best in Command Award for reducing energy consumption by more than 10 percent and improving systems and infrastructure across the base.

After nearly 30 years of civil service at Keesler, Robert began working alongside his friend and mentor, Mr. Paul Lamey, at Lamey Electric. He purchased the business in 2000 and served as its proud owner and president for 17 years before he sold it to his daughter and son-in-law.

Robert loved deeply—and in this order most days: God, his girls and family, his country, and his motorcycles (though the ranking was sometimes debated). The love of his life was Connie. They met in February 1975, married just months later on August 2, and spent 50 wonderful years together. They were opposites in many ways, but perfectly balanced. Robert was her anchor and hero; she was his sail. Whether dancing across the floor at Mardi Gras balls, 40s parties, backyard barbecues, or family gatherings, they were unforgettable—graceful, joyful, and completely in love.

He was a proud father to three daughters—Shelley (Brian) Scarborough, Jaclyn (Billy) Ducote, and Tracie (Nick) Strayham—and an adoring Poppi to six grandchildren: Arley, Orrin, Sonora, Bailyn, Ramsey, and Haven. His laugh—especially when he was stealing your fishing hole or reeling in a 40-pound catfish—was something you never forgot. Time spent on the Tchoutacabouffa River or Lake Mitchell with his girls and their families was time he treasured.

Faith was central to Robert's life, and he was an active member of Cedar Lake Global Methodist Church. He also gave his time and talents to his community through the International Association of Electrical Inspectors—where he served as Treasurer, Secretary, and President over the years—and as a member of the Biloxi Businessmen’s Club. He was involved in Mardi Gras societies including Les Perot, Les Cavaliers, Revelers, and was even a past king of Bilikins. He was a founder of the Gulf Coast Sandblasters and was a lifelong member of the Southern Enduro Riders Association (SERA)—sometimes intimidating but always loved. His young daughter enjoyed this passion with him as she camped with him and rode the dirtbike he bought for her.

Robert answered to many names: Robert, RRR, Robear, Papa Rock, Poppi, Sug, Precious, Rock, Rockco. He survived Vietnam, a broken neck in a car accident, motorcycle wrecks, and more than a few close calls—each one a reminder that God wasn’t finished with him yet. Though a man of few words, in his later years he spoke often about how blessed he felt and how good God had been to him. Even as he battled leukemia, his faith never wavered. He didn’t lose the fight—he simply crossed the finish line first in the race to eternal life.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife, daughters, siblings, stepsister, nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and a lifetime of friends who became family.

Make a joyful noise and ride on, Robear. Save us a spot by the riverbank—set some limb lines for when we get there. You are dearly loved and will be deeply missed.

The family is planning a private celebration of life at a later date. If you would like to honor Robert, please make donations to one of the following: Crusaders for Veterans or Cedar Lake GMC.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Biloxi, is honored to serve the Rockco family. An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com .