Ralph Eugene (Gene) Wigal, 88, of Oxford, Mississippi, passed away Wednesday, October 6, 2021, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford.

Gene was a fun-loving dad and a great father. Prior to moving to Oxford, he was a long-time resident of Biloxi and Gulfport who loved the coast, the seafood, and the golf course.

Gene was born In West Virginia to Opal and J. Cameron Wigal on November 21, 1932. He served in the United States Air Force as a Major and was a decorated Vietnam Veteran. After retiring, he earned his MBA in Economics and Finance from the University of Southern Mississippi and opened his own business. Several years later he became an avid Blackjack player and dealer. His favorite activities were bowling, golfing, fishing, and he developed a deep interest in family genealogy and spent many years researching family history.

Gene is preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother, Lee. He is survived by his sister, Eileen Wigal Penrod (Bob), as well as three daughters: Susan Wigal Strickland (William) of Oxford, MS, Virginia Wygal of Carrollton, TX, and Jennifer Wigal Millett (Todd) of Lindon, UT. He has 5 grandchildren: Christopher Strickland (Anne), Garrett Strickland (Joey), Lauren Millett Loveridge (Nathan), Jenessa Millett, and Paige Millett. He also has 3 great grandchildren: Dalton Strickland, Brooklyn Loveridge and Benjamin Loveridge.

He will be laid to rest at the Biloxi National Cemetery in Biloxi, Mississippi in a private ceremony later in the year. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to K9s for Warriors at https://k9sforwarriors.org/. Click on the Donate button. After inputting the desired amount, donors should select the box that reads “Yes this is an honor or memorial gift” in memory of Gene Wigal. Please note the Notification Recipient as Susan Strickland, 1039 Zilla Avent Dr., Oxford, MS, 38655.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is serving the family.  Memories may be shared at www.riemannfamily.com