Priscilla made her transition in the early morning hours on March 31st, 2021 at the age of 83 from complications due to sepsis. Born May 25th, 1937 in Yakima, Washington, Priscilla, better known as “Perky,” was the middle daughter of Otis Melton and Fern Melton (Biava). Her father passed away in 1990 followed by her mother in 1996. Perky had two sisters: Patricia and Phyllis, who transitioned in 2020 and 2015, respectively.
As the daughter of the foreman for Condon’s Orchards, Perky lived an idyllic life in a river-rock house amid apple, pear, peach, apricot, and cherry trees. Work and play were plentiful during the growing and harvest seasons. The pool at Condon’s Castle and nearby irrigation canals provided a respite from the summer heat. She attended Wide Hollow elementary as a child and later graduated from Yakima High School.
After school was finished, Perky worked as a telephone operator for Pacific Northwest Bell. It wasn’t long before she met Wahl “Buzz” Barrett, the love of her live. Three months after their first date, the newlyweds were off on their honeymoon camping along the Columbia river. They were married for 53 years until Buzz passed away in 2009.
Perky and Buzz had two children: Eric Jason Barrett of Punta Gorda, Florida, and Jamie Lynne Barrett of Mill Creek, Washington. She adored her three grandchildren: Vanessa (husband Jose), Ryan (wife Jenni) and Steven (partner Sarah). She lived to see four great-grandchildren: Olivia, Andrew, Rowan and Daphne.
Once retired, Perky and Buzz spent their final married years in Bend, Oregon. Perky loved gardening and tending to her yard. She kept the plant nurseries busy buying flowers, trees and perennials in the spring. Often, she could be found on her hands and knees trimming the flora just right. She also loved her Jazzercise classes in between volunteering at the gift shop in the local hospital.
While physical issues may have slowed her down in her final decades, Perky’s personality was still kind and loving. Friends, caretakers, and family found her adorable and caring.
Since Buzz passed away, Perky always missed him. Now, she is reunited, happy and at peace.
In lieu of flowers, the family ask that you donate to the charity of your choice.
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