James Howard Perry

He lived most of his early years in Gadsden, Al. This is where he met the love of his life, his wife of 70 years, Betty Avis Davis Perry. They welcomed to this marriage five children, 16 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren. He loved the spouses that married into the family. They became his family. He loved his family and they all loved and adored him.

He was a graduate of Jacksonville State University. He retired from Alabama Power Company after 42 years of service. He and Avis enjoyed their retirement years and traveled to many beautiful destinations, visited with family, attended many grand and great-grandchildren’s church, school and sports activities. They enjoyed these years tremendously.

He was a charter member of Gardendale Church of the Nazarene, where he served in many capacities, but he served longest as church treasurer. He was unable to attend the last couple of years, but he always wanted to know about his Sunday School Class and his church.

He is survived by his son, James Howard Perry, Jr. (Carol), his daughters, Janice Tucker (Al), Patricia Murphree, Joy Clay (Jerry) and Renee York (Tommy); his grandchildren, Tonya Cotton (Jeff), Heidi Rosa, Ryan Smith (Recee), Justin Smith, Lauren Bryan, Elaine Shelton (Brent), John Murphree (Emily), Jennifer Gerhart (Neal), Rachael Heintz (Josh), Joshua Perry (Cassie), Brett Clay (Elizabeth), Kenny Clay, Ashley Smith (Eric), Amanda York (Ian Craig) and Evan York; 37 great grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren and the spouses of those married. He is also survived by his brother, Rev. Robert Perry (Peggy), his brother-in-law Jerry Davis (O’Teena), his niece Joan Bowen (Sonny), who he loved like a daughter, and many other beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Avis Perry; sons-in-law Benny Smith and Roger Murphree; his parents, Tom and Mary Perry; brothers Leon, Bill, and Dan and sister Louise Helton; four nephews and a niece.

A visitation for James will be held Saturday, November 19, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Gardendale Church of the Nazarene, 1800 Decatur Highway, Gardendale, AL 35071, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutsgardendalechapel.com for the Perry family.