John Richard "Dickie" Gossett, 89, of Columbus, MS, passed away Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at his residence.  Visitation will be Saturday, September 30, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Lowndes Funeral Home.  The funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM at the funeral home with Pastor Curtis Bray officiating.  A private family graveside will follow at Memorial Gardens, Columbus, MS with Lowndes Funeral Home directing.

Mr. Gossett was born December 15, 1933, in New Madrid, MO to the late Alfred L. Gossett and Oda Mae Brumfield Gossett.  He served in the U.S. Navy for three years following his high school graduation.  Mr. Gossett retired after many years with APAC of Columbus, MS.  He enjoyed watching Alabama football.  He was a member of Shaeffer's Chapel of Columbus, MS.  In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife of 36 years – Lavada Gossett, four brothers, and two sisters.

Mr. Gossett is survived by two daughters – Cindy (Benny) Mattox of Prattville, AL and Melinda (Bill) Benford of Tuscaloosa, AL; son – Mark (Sharon) Gossett of Jasper, AL; grandchildren – Jason (Carrie) Mattox of Prattville, AL, Stephen (Brittany) Mattox of Brewton, AL, and Derrick (Ashlee) Traverzo of Lutz, FL; great-grandchildren – Sage, Jaxson, Hampton, Carleigh, Camden, and Ryan; and sister – Betty Cole of Grand Haven, MI.

Pallbearers will be Jason Mattox, Stephen Mattox, Derrick Traverzo, Benny Mattox, Don Mattox, and Jeff Mattox. Honorary Pallbearers will be – The members of Shaeffer's Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Shaeffer's Chapel, PO Box 863, Columbus, MS 39703, or a charity of your choice.

The family would like to thank the staff of Gentiva Hospice of Starkville, MS for their professional and compassionate care of our father during his brief illness.  A special thanks to Gabbie, Brittany, Pam, Veronica, Allison, and Polly of Gentiva Hospice for their personal care and kindness.