Aug. 13, 1938 – Dec. 8, 2019

NATCHEZ— A family graveside service for John Gordon McCormick Jr., 81, of Gautier, who died Sunday, De­c. 8, 2019, will be 1 p.m. Saturday at the Natchez City Cemetery under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.     
Visitation will be from noon until service time Saturday at the funeral home.
Mr. McCormick was born Aug. 13, 1938, in Alto, Louisiana, the son of John and Mabel McCormick. He was raised in Natchez and was a graduate of Natchez High School. He graduated from Missis­sippi State University and held a master’s degree in vocational education from the University of Georgia and a doctorate in educa­tion administration from the University of Southern Mississippi.
John served as director of Lanier Area Technical and Vocational School in Gaines­ville, Georgia, before moving to Pascagoula as director of Vocational Education for the Pascagoula School System and later served in other adminis­trative positions. He became assistant superintendent of Gulfport schools where he retired after 20 years. John was a member of First Baptist Church of Gautier.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Peggy Sue; and one brother, Edwin Hugh.
Survivors include his wife of 59 years, Charlotte Tew McCormick; two sons, Michael and life partner, Kelly Lott, of Ocean Springs, and Colin McCormick and wife, Su­zanne, of Lynn Haven, Florida; one daughter, Michele Berry and husband, CB, of Jackson; one brother, David McCormick and wife, Karen, of Athens, Georgia; his brother-in-law, Ronnie Tew and wife, Jeanne, of Pensacola; six grand­children, Megan McCormick, Michelle Roberts and husband, Drew, Hope Berry, Zoe McCormick, Harley McCormick and Neill Berry; five great-grandchildren; and a number nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Ocean Springs Hospital and to especially acknowl­edge the caring and helpful staff of Hospice of Light. A special thank you to Curtis, Daphne, Michael, Trey and Clara for the love and care they gave to John.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations be made to the Salvation Army of Jackson County or Hospice of Light.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at lairdfh.com.