Thanks to these Dedicated Supporters
HALL OF HONOR
Each year, an Executive Committee reviews and recommends those individuals who have played an important role in the growth and development of our programs and center. They are nominated by the committee, and voted on by the Advisory Board:
HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE - 2007
Mr. Tullus R. Castor
Mr. Castor was our first inductee and is
the husband of Hall of Honor inductee, Mrs. Joyce Castor.
A long-time board member, Mr. Castor was an advocate for de l'Epee
and made sure that we were always remembered
by the Elks for funding and food donations.
HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE - 2008
Charles "Charlie" Carver
Our first Deaf Inductee was
always willing to help and never said no.
Charlie was an advocate for Deaf rights and fought for
equal access and communication for all Deaf in all situations
HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE - 2009
A.J.M. "Bubba" Outstalet, Jr.
Mr. Oustalet was a major financial supporter
to the programs and building of the Center
where it stands today.
HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE - 2014
Mrs. Lena Mae Oustalet
After her husband's death, Lena Mae continued
to support the Deaf Center each year through
the Oustalet Foundation.
Having a Deaf child allowed the Oustalets
insight into the valuable service we provide.
The Oustalet Foundation continues to support
de l'Epee annually.
HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE - 2011
Mrs. Mary Francis Stafford
Mrs. Stafford was a staunch advocate for the Deaf,
working with the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter of Quota International
to promote the programs and need for funding.
HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE - 2015
Sr. Dolores Coleman, D.C.
Sr. Dolores was the Founder of de l'Epee
and began the mission of serving the Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
Sr. Dolores is the only recipient to date, inducted while living.
HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE - 2016
Mrs. Joyce V. Castor
Mrs. Castor supported the Center in many aspects
from personal financial donations to being our liaison
with the Elks Auxiliary and establishing a
Scholarship fund for studies
in fields to benefit Deaf and Hard of Hearing.
HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE - 2020
Mrs. Suquita "Darlene" Duffano
Darlene was a long time Board Member and Fund Raiser, who inspired with her infectious smile and 'nothing will stop me' attitude.
HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE - 2020
Mrs. Mary "Helen" Margiotta
Helen was a leader in the Deaf community always volunteering first and contributing in any way she could. A long time Board Member of the Center, Helen was our Matriarch in many ways. She loved animals and people alike.
HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE - 2020
Mr. William "Bill" McCollister
Bill was a long-time volunteer who not only gave of his time fixing things at the Center and handling food distribution every Thursday, but in addition, he went to the homes of our Deaf in need and helped with the problems of the house. He trained as an Interpreter and was skilled at signing for himself
HALL OF HONOR INDUCTEE - 2020
Mrs. Doris Layne Mahalak
Doris created a craft class for our Deaf Ladies and led them in numerous projects such as making stuffed animals for children in the hospital during holidays. Doris was a member of the Biloxi Lions and numerous other organizations, but was never too busy to serve where needed at de l'Epee.