Travis Vance Jr.

Published 9:14 am Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Travis Vance Jr., a loving family man, a devoted attorney, and steadfast community servant, passed away peacefully Sunday, April 6, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, generosity, and compassion. He was born on Dec. 5, 1940, in Yazoo City, Mississippi to Travis Vance Sr., and Bobbie H. Wahl.

After graduating from Cooper High School, Travis pursued his passion for justice and public service. He earned a degree in political science from Mississippi College, followed by his Juris Doctorate from the University of Mississippi. Over the next 60 years, he built an esteemed legal career, representing clients in both civil and criminal matters. Known for his tenacity and fierce advocacy, Travis practiced law with unwavering integrity and heartfelt commitment, touching the lives of countless individuals and families.

Beyond the courtroom, Travis was deeply involved in his community. He was a founding member of the Port City Vicksburg Kiwanis Club and a charter member of Hawkins United Methodist Church and charter member of the Plumbers & Pipefitters Union Local Unit 619. He also served as president of the Fisher Ferry Water Board for a number of years. He was always eager to serve and improve the place he called home. A proud supporter of Ole Miss athletics, he rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on the Rebels.

Those who knew Travis remember him not only for his sharp legal mind, but for his boundless generosity. Whether offering time, resources, or helping hand, he never hesitated to support those around him, whether it was family, friends, clients, or strangers. He also had a deep love for animals, especially his beloved dog Bella, who was never far from his side.

Travis is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Beverly Coles Vance; his daughter, Shannan Vance; his sister, Sheila Lyons; and son, James East.

He is survived by his son, Travis Vance III; daughter, Lori Vance Barfield (Brent); grandchildren, Maribeth Hillhouse (Justin), Kaitlyn Manning (John), and Jason B. Barfield (Courtney); seven great-grandchildren; his brother, Travis Wayne Vance Sr.; sisters, Leslie Pitts (Chester) and Doris Jean Vance; a very special friend, Mary Powers; right-hand man, Bennie Slaughter; his law partner, Mike Bonner; and Legal Assistant Balinda Byram; as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

A memorial service honoring Travis’ life and legacy will be held Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Hawkins United Methodist Church, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. and concluding prior to service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Hawkins United Methodist Church or PAWS Rescue, in recognition of Travis’ deep faith and his love for animals.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for a life well-lived and a heart well-shared.

With special gratitude and appreciation, we thank Travis’ special caregivers, Carolyn Barnes and Leonia Carter, for their kindness, love, and generosity of spirit.

Pallbearers are Jason Barfield Jr., Mike Bonner, Justin Hillhouse, John Manning, Johnny Price, Bennie Slaughter, Travis Wayne Vance Sr., Travis Wayne Vance Jr. and Mack Varner.

Honorary pallbearers are John Bell, Marcie Southerland, Marty Crevitt, Jeff Crevitt, Ricky Smith Jr., Ricky Johnson, Jim Nobles, Kearney Waites, Paul Winfield, Pete Buford, Caleb Brown, Jerry Campbell, David Bolowich, and members of the Port City Kiwanis Club, the Plumber and Pipefitters and the Warren County Bar Association.