Browsing: People

Our greatest asset in Mississippi is our people. Get to know the people who make up our Mississippi home!

The influence of a legendary University of Southern Mississippi (USM) professor convinced Louise Smith to come to Hattiesburg and study to be a music educator – ultimately following a “call to teach” that has since struck a chord with those singing praises for her work as the longtime band director at Gautier (Miss.) Middle School.   

Many people recognize these lyrics as part of Lauren Daigle’s award-winning song, “You Say,” from Look Up Child, her third studio album. However, fewer people might realize that this album became the highest-charting Christian album from a female artist in over 20 years. 

As you enter the downtown area of Plantersville, Mississippi, you will notice a charming, local grocery store. This store stands out with inviting cafe lights on the front porch and a sign that reads “Better Buy.” Better Buy is a discount grocery and variety store known for its discounted grocery prices and unparalleled hospitality, making it a favorite among locals.

The late Bernard Coffindaffer spent millions leaving his mark.

Crosses of Mercy stand along numerous roadways reminding us of Jesus’ death and of Coffindaffer’s evangelism. Clusters of three crosses, two painted heavenly blue flanking a center one painted Jerusalem gold, are scattered in 29 states, the District of Columbia, Zambia and the Philippines.

While living in New Orleans, London met Scott Hoverman, owner of 3 Alarm Comics in Ocean Springs. Hoverman invited London to come and sign autographs as a celebrity guest, introducing him to Mississippi. “I fell in love with Ocean Springs,” shared London. “It is truly a magical little place. So beautiful.” At that time, London’s family was expecting. “We were about to have a baby, and New Orleans didn’t feel like the place we truly wanted to be,” shared London. “So the Universe brought us here.” 

Gallant Hearts Guide Dog Center was co-founded by Rebecca (Becky) Floyd and Kathie Curtis in 2010. Floyd, the Executive Director, had a dream and passion for establishing a guide dog school and pursued that dream after retiring as the Executive Director of the MS Protection and Advocacy System in Jackson, MS. Curtis, who shared the dream of a guide dog school, retired as the Director of Youth Ministry for the Catholic Diocese of Jackson and now is the Director of Kennel Operations & Puppy Program.