Antha "Becky" R. Perry

Antha Rebecca “Becky” Perry was born on December 23, 1939, in Louisville, Kentucky, to the late Estelle Taylor Clay and Frank Clay, Sr. She was the cherished granddaughter of Ruby Pillow Cash and Chester Arthur Clay, whose wisdom and love profoundly shaped her upbringing.

In 1957, Becky graduated from Central High School in Louisville and pursued higher education at Kentucky State University and Abilene Christian College. Her academic journey reflected her deep passion for learning and community service.

In the late 1950’s, Becky met the love of her life, John “JD” Perry. They were joined in holy matrimony on September 25, 1960, and built a life rooted in faith, love, and devotion together. Their 59 years of marriage were blessed by the birth of two sons, their most incredible pride and joy. JD preceded her in death, leaving behind a legacy of love that Becky carried forward gracefully.

The Perry family’s life was one of adventure and resilience, shaped by DJ’s 21 years of service in the US Air Force. Their journey took them across the globe, and they lived in California, Ohio, Arizona, Kentucky, Thailand, Japan, the Philippines, and South Carolina. After JD retired in 1976, the family settled in Abilene, Texas, embracing the community as their forever home.

Becky retired from supply logistics with the 7th Medical Support Squadron at Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene, Texas, where her commitment to excellence and teamwork left a lasting impression on her colleagues.

Becky was a pillar of faith and devotion, dedicating much of her life to serving her church and community with unwavering commitment. Her journey of worship began at the family home church, Green Castle Baptist Church in Prospect, Kentucky, where she nurtured her spiritual foundation. In adulthood, she became a cornerstone of New Light Baptist Church, faithfully serving as a member for over five decades.

Becky held vital roles within the church, including Financial Secretary and Clerk, serving under the leadership of four pastors: Rev. A. Hurd, Rev. L. Scott, and Rev. E. Jordan. Her leadership shone brightly as President of the Deaconess Board, Secretary of the Finance Committee, and a dedicated member of the Scholarship Committee.

Her contributions extended beyond administrative roles, as she was actively involved in the Missionary Society, Vacation Bible School, and Sundy School programs. Becky enriched countless lives through these ministries with her wisdom, kindness, and steadfast dedication to her faith and community. Becky was an original founding member of the Red Hat Society Abilene Chapter, “Honeybees-n-Purple & Red,” established in October 2004. This group of women came together to celebrate fellowship, faith, and fun, united by their shared belief in God, dedication to helping others, and love of good food. Of the original 18 founding members, Jenny and Martha remain the last of this cherished sisterhood.

Known for her culinary talents, Becky’s unique and heartfelt dishes were a testament to her generous spirit, delighting church members, friends, and family alike.

Becky’s unwavering faith, nurturing presence, and kind smile left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Her legacy of love, service, and truth will continue to inspire future generations.

Becky was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; her stepmother Mrs. Nannie Howard Clay; her brothers Frank Clay, Jr. (Inez) and Darnell Clay, Sr; and her grandson Jeremy. Becky was also preceded in death by sister and brothers-in-law Butler Perry, Nathaniel (Cora) Perry, Mary Ferguson, and Martha (Leroy) Farris.

Becky’s legacy will be lovingly remembered by her two devoted sons: David (Sharon) of San Antonio, Texas and Steven (Debra) of Abilene, Texas; her three grandsons Jordan, Jaylen, and David Bransen; and her “long-awaited” granddaughter Alayna. She is also survived by her great-grandson Jeremy Jr.; two brothers Ben (Lisa) Wells and John (Bettie) Clay, all of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; two sisters-in-law Angelyn Clay of Louisville, Kentucky and Doris Perry of Clyde, Texas; and four godchildren Karen Marshall, Kim Newman, Denise Aboso, and Aniya Bobbit. Her closest friends were Ellie Truvil, Birdie Baker, Jenny Edwards, Irma Wilson, and the late Eleanor Jones. A host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends will also cherish her memory.

A visitation for Antha will be held Sunday, November 24, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at her beloved New Light Baptist Church, 518 N 6th Street, Abilene, Texas 79601. A funeral service will occur Monday, November 25, 2024, at 11:00 AM, also at the church, officiated by Pastor DeOri Newman. A committal service will follow at Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene, where she will be laid to rest with her beloved husband John David Perry.