William Anderson Obituary

William Walter Anderson, 86 of Ocean Springs, MS passed away on January 19, 2026.

Billy as he was called all his life was born on October 25, 1939 in Biloxi, MS, to Walter Inglis Anderson and Agnes “Sissy” Grinstead Anderson. His childhood was spent at Oldfields Plantation in Gautier and Shearwater in Ocean Springs where he made many lifelong friends. After high school, he joined the Army National Guard where he served the coast community following Hurricane Camille. He took great pride in his father’s art and life, and during his mother’s life Billy was a steadfast, supportive presence. He loved to hunt, fish, and spend time on the many bayous and bays in MS and LA. The best catch of his life happened on April 12, 1964 when he married Carolyn Rose Fournier. In those nearly 62 years of marriage, he became the proud father of three loving daughters: Rosalie Agnes Anderson, Mary Annette Anderson Muneoka, and Dodie Marie Anderson Bertolino and six adoring grandchildren: Caroline, Billy, Carolyn, Kate, Muss, and Nick. Ever the consummate outdoorsman, he imparted his knowledge onto his grandkids, teaching them to love and appreciate nature as he was taught.

Billy worked as a newspaper carrier at an early age and at the age of 14 began working at Bayou Marine where he eventually became part-owner of the business. He retired after 49 years. Life after retirement was spent heading the Walter Anderson estate, bird watching on his beloved deck, entertaining friends and family at his home, attending his grandchildren’s school and sport events, and boat trips to Horn and Ship Islands. He was a master storyteller, a wise advisor, and a generous and kind person. He amazed his grandsons with his recall of history, sports, Westerns, and guns. He was a savant of weather and tides and had a talent for finding fish. His character was sterling.

Billy was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. He was predeceased by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his daughters, Rosalie (Rodolfo), Mary (Ken) of New Orleans, LA, and Dodie (Sal) of Ocean Springs; his six grandchildren, Caroline (Kyle), Billy, Carolyn (Riley), Kate (Kade), Muss, and Nick; siblings, Mary Anderson Pickard, Leif Anderson, and John Anderson and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Billy’s name to The Lord Is My Help Food Kitchen in Ocean Springs, the St. Alphonsus Chapel Building Fund, and/or the Walter Anderson Museum of Art.

Billy’s family would like to thank the Ocean Springs Hospital staff for their compassionate care and their family and friends for their prayers and support.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00am on Friday, January 30, 2026 at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, 502 Jackson Avenue, Ocean Springs. Friends may visit one hour prior.

A celebration of Billy’s life will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Ocean Springs Community Center, 510 Washington Avenue.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. William Walter Anderson.