William Edward “Ed” Rafferty, a remarkable individual known as an Engineer, Veteran, Bassist, Astronomer, Husband, Father, and cherished “Pappy,” departed on Sunday, August 20, 2023, embarking on an eternal jazz gig in the sky. Ed, a resident of Long Beach, Mississippi, valiantly battled cancer with courage and determination.

Ed's legacy includes his wife, Teryl Rafferty, his daughter, Heather Rafferty, stepchildren Ian Ziska, Rachel Ziska (Chris Chandler), and Aj Neyrey. His siblings are Frances (Mike) Spruill, Marybeth (Pete) Kozakiewicz, Rebecca Mayfield (Gary Sowder), and John Rafferty. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Alexie Ziska, Ella Touchstone, Johnnie Blake, and Oliver Phillips. Ed's expansive circle of family and friends, including cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong companions, also treasure his memory.

Preceding Ed in death were his father, Harry Rafferty, and his nephew, Jordan Rafferty.

Born on April 21, 1954, in Jackson, Tennessee, to Harry and Johnnie Rafferty, Ed graduated from East Jefferson High School in 1972. During the same year, he joined the Navy, becoming a member of the USS NEW ORLEANS crew. Serving during the Vietnam War, Pacific Fleet, and contributing to Skylab II and Skylab III missions, Ed's passion for bass guitar shone as he played in an onboard band. The USS NEW ORLEANS carried both Ed and his music across the globe, leaving an indelible mark. Ed's journey led him to San Diego, where he explored his love for Jazz Fusion, fatherhood, go-kart racing, astronomy, and sailing. In 1990, he returned to Mississippi, settling in Long Beach, where he built a life with his wife of 31 years. Ed thrived as a sailor, a member of the Long Beach Yacht Club, racing his sailboat Alceyone alongside loved ones. After retiring from the Navy in 1994, Ed engaged in diverse ventures, including owning and operating Rafferty Communications. In 2005, he commenced his role as Project Engineer for the Aegis Destroyer Program at Ingalls, focused on Aviation and Fiber Optics.

Ed's multifaceted life included his dedication to fishing, being a lifelong Boy Scout, and his volunteer work with Troop 204 in Gulfport. He actively participated in various musical ensembles, such as The Bay St Louis Trio, K4RM4, and The Ministry of the Silly Walks. Ed was not just a bassist but a pioneer, playing with unique style and unwavering dedication. His vibrant personality, unconventional wisdom, and boundless laughter distinguished him.

Ed's family extends gratitude to Saint Joseph’s Hospice for their exceptional care. A celebration of his life will encourage colorful attire. Visitation is scheduled for Friday, August 25, 2023, from 10 am - 11 am at Saint Peter's By-the-Sea Episcopal Church, followed by a prayer service. Interment will take place on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at 4 pm in Rutledge-Salem United Methodist Church Cemetery, Iuka, MS.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Camp Able at www.campable.org/donate or The Jazz Foundation of America at www.jazzfoundation.org/donate.

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, Long Beach, is assisting the family, and online condolences can be shared at www.riemannfamily.com.

Online condolences are also accepted at ludlamfuneralhome.com.