March 8, 1944 – July 24, 2011

NATCHEZ — Graveside services for Carl Otis “Coot” Porter Jr., 67, of Natchez, who died Sunday, July 24, 2011, at his residence, will be at 4 p.m. today at Greenlawn Memorial Park Cemetery with the Rev. Melvin White officiating.

Burial will follow under the direction of Laird Funeral Home.

Mr. Porter was born March 8, 1944, in Portland, Ore., the son of Carl Otis Porter Sr. and Ann Jones Porter.

Mr. Porter joined the U.S. Air Force as a teenager. Upon completion of his tour of duty he began his lifelong career in the oil industry. While retired, he and his wife, Annie Laura, owned New Beginnings Furniture. He was one of the most honest, hard working men who ever lived. His mother instilled in him the values of hard work, integrity and love of family.

He will be missed beyond words and treasured in our hearts forever.

Mr. Porter was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, David Porter; and one sister, Carole Ann Porter Verrucchi.

Survivors include his wife, Annie Laura King Porter; one daughter, Carla Annette Porter Gentry; one granddaughter, Mallory Camden Ferrell; four stepchildren, Suzanne Robertson, Janet Lynn Ferguson, Brenda Kay King and Robert Lee King Jr.; two sisters, Mary Ann Hutchinson and Linda Whittington; one brother, Danny Porter; and a number of nieces and nephews that he cherished.

The family extends thanks to Dr. Barry Tillman and Camellia Hospice for their unwavering support and care.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Natchez Children’s Home.

Online condolences may be sent to www.lairdfh.com.