John Henry Perkins' Obituary
John Henry Perkins passed away in his adopted home of Memphis, Tennessee on October 20, 2009. Born October 21, 1922, in Smithland, Kentucky, he later moved to Detroit, Michigan after he proudly served his country in World War II. As many men of his generation, he served in the war honoring his sense of duty and patriotism without much fanfare or accolades. He was one of the brave young men that stormed the shores of Normandy which changed the course of history. In Detroit, as he began his long career in the auto industry, he met his beloved wife, Jane DelVero. This began a love affair that blossomed for more than 60 years. They celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary on Sunday, October 18, 2009.He had three children, David, (predeceased), Dawn (Gary Goldman), and Denice (Michael Detroit). But the true joys of his life were his grandchildren, Benjamin John Chiszar, David and Katie Mac Goldman, and Patsy Detroit. All his grandchildren will miss their beloved Papa. In addition to his wife, daughters, and grandchildren, he is survived by 3 of his 7 brothers and sisters fondly known as the “Great Eight,” Imogene Dunlap, Joseph Perkins, and Patricia Brumback Twedt, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. The family would also like to acknowledge his caregiver, Linda Edwards, who so lovingly helped take Mr. Perkins to his doctor appointments and care for him during his long illness.A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, October 27, 12 noon, at Bellevue Woods Retirement Community, 1818 Timberglen Drive, Cordova, TN. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be sent to the American Diabetes Association or Amedisys Hospice of Memphis.
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