House Concurrent Resolution 51

(As Adopted by House and Senate)

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION COMMENDING THE LIFE, LEGACY AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF EMILE L. "JUNIE" DESPORTE III AND EXPRESSING DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS UPON HIS PASSING.

WHEREAS, Emile L. "Junie" Desporte III departed this earthly life on Wednesday, January 3, 2007, to enter into eternal rest, causing great sorrow and loss to his family and friends; and

WHEREAS, at 59, Mr. Desporte, a business-savvy seafood magnate, was continuing the family business, which has spanned the course of more than 100 years, turning the family owned retail outlet into a large scale operation serving the entire Mississippi Gulf Coast; and

WHEREAS, a lifelong resident of Biloxi, Mr. Desporte has been characterized as a man larger than life, who was in love with his native home, his family and friends; and

WHEREAS, immersing himself in his business and being an unofficial honorary ambassador for Biloxi, Mr. Desporte became synonymous with the city and his personality was magnetic; and

WHEREAS, a devoted pillar of strength to his family, church and community, Mr. Desporte, who was preceded in death by his son, Emile L. "Little Junie" Desporte IV, is survived by his devoted wife of 30 years, Angie Desporte; daughter, Angel Harrelson; son, Sean Desporte; parents, Emile L. Desporte, Jr., and Shirley Desporte; sister, Julie Kessen; and brother, Artie Desporte; and

WHEREAS, though he has transversed the river of life to now stand on golden heavenly shores, the legacy of his memory will continue to live in the hearts of his survivors; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of this Legislature to commend the life of such an influential individual as Mr. Desporte, whose life was a beacon of light, strength and love:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE SENATE CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby commend the life and legacy of Mr. Emile L. "Junie" Desporte III, and express deepest sympathy to his family and friends upon his passing.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to the family of Mr. Emile L. "Junie" Desporte III and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.