Page 38 - South Mississippi Living - January, 2022

“Nothing is difficult to the brave and faithful.
— The O’Keefe Family Crest
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Jeffrey O’Keefe, Jr. Jeffrey O’Keefe, Sr. Jules O’Keefe
Faces of Bradford O’Keefe
Jeffrey O’Keefe, Jr.
Justin B. O’Keefe
Bradford-O’Keefe is a family legacy six generations in the making. “We’ve been family owned and operated since 1865,” says Jeffrey O’Keefe, Jr., president of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Homes. “The greatest reward in our line of work is being able to provide comfort families going through difficult times.”
As a Biloxi native, Jeffrey is well known on the Coast. What many might not know, however, is that while growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, he played hockey. “This sport gave me the opportunity to travel all over the country and visit many places.”
Jeffrey and wife, Linsey, are the proud parents of daughter Layla Elaine O’Keefe.
Jeffrey O’Keefe, Sr.
As one of Bradford-O’Keefe’s fifth generation members, you could say Jeffrey O’Keefe, Sr. knows a bit about the industry. “I basically grew up in the business,” he says. “What I enjoy most about my line of work is helping others in their time of need.”
Jeffrey has always had a genuine interest in being a part of the community, and has served within a plethora of organizations. He loves living in South Mississippi, and credits the wonderful people (and the food) for characterizing the Coast.
Of his family he says, “I am blessed by an amazing and supportive wife, three sons, two wonderful daughter-in-laws, and three granddaughters, all whom brighten my life.”
Jules O’Keefe
After the loss of his older brother, Adam, Jules O’Keefe felt a calling to help other families with prearranging. “I love helping families get their final wishes taken care of,” he said. “This is a very big step that is often overlooked. Whether it’s on a pre-need or at-need basis, helping families find closure is why I love what I do.”
When he’s not at work, at the gym or spending time with family, Jules can often be found producing music, a passion of his since he was a teenager. “The best part of life is my family,” he says. “I have a beautiful one-and-a-half year old and another on the way. Being a husband and father has been the greatest blessing.” The family also has two fur babies, Quasimodo and Nala.
Justin B. O’Keefe
Growing up in a large family, Justin O’Keefe learned a lot about relationships and the importance of communicating effectively, working hard to earn the trust and respect of those around him. This perspective and genuine concern for others is what has made him a successful business owner today.
He and his loving wife, Teresa, share five beautiful children and eleven grandchildren. Having lost his son, Adam, at the young age of 29 in a vehicle accident, he intimately knows the grief families go through. Justin is proud to be working with his son, Jules, in the family business to continue on the tradition.
Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Homes | Vancleave, Ocean Springs, Biloxi, Gulfport and Bay St. Louis | www.bokfh.com
38 | January 2022 www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living