Rufus McKeithan McGehee Jr. passed away Friday, February 11, 2011 in Salt Lake City, Utah at the age of 71.

Rufus, known to many as Mack, was born June 29, 1939 in Birmingham, Ala. to Rufus McKeithan McGehee Sr. and Lillie Belle Capley McGehee. He graduated from Poplarville High School in Poplarville, Miss., class of 1957.

Mack joined the United States Navy in 1959. He served his country for 21 years, including service during the Vietnam War. He retired at the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer.

Married Viola Tafoya in 1965, they were later divorced.

Preceded in death by: his parents; step-mother Evelyn; and beloved step-brother Dale Bass.

Survived by: daughters Sherri (Scot) Jacobsen of Westminster, Colo., Denise McGehee Webb of Salt Lake City; and grandchildren: William Connor Jacobsen and Alexis Courtney Webb. Also survived by life long friends from the class of 1957.

Graveside services will be held Friday, February 25, 2011 at 2 p.m. Interment at Poplarville City Cemetery in Poplarville.

White Funeral Home, Poplarville (601) 795-4982 in charge.