James Sylvester Perry

James Sylvester Perry was born September 7, 1921 to Martha Eva and Fred Sylvester Perry in Walla Walla, WA. Jim was a long-time Seattle-based Greyhound Bus driver and manager. He died April 10, 2020 at the age of 98.

Jim attended school in the Queen Anne area and the University of Washington. He landed his first job at a young age and was never out of work from then on. During the Depression, he sometimes worked for free to show that he was needed. The jobs were varied, and Jim gained lots of experience. In 1943, Jim turned 21 and followed his love of driving by becoming a professional driver with North Coast Bus Lines.

In 1948, Jim said he struck gold when he married his beloved Gladys. Theirs was a wonderful union lasting 55 years. Gladys was a recognized elementary school teacher with Seattle Public Schools for 44 years.

After World War II, Greyhound purchased North Coast Bus Lines. After driving for many years, Jim was offered a management position where he remained for the rest of his 41 year career. Among the many management positions he held, one of his most gratifying was that of hiring and training drivers. Before Jim took over that position, all the drivers were white males. He changed that by hiring those who were qualified, including persons of color and females. At that time, this policy caused quite a stir, but he felt he was doing the right thing.

Upon retirement, Jim and Gladys gardened and traveled until 1987, then they moved to Horizon House. From that new home base, they traveled throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia.

2003 was a sad year. Jim lost his beloved Gladys in September.

Before he died, Jim wanted everyone to know that when his time came, he would be ready, having lived a happy and fulfilling life of rich friendships and experiences. He had the greatest mother, father, brother, wife, and friends ever. He is survived by niece Kay Perry Borlaug (husband Lars) of Seattle and nephew Robert Perry (wife Sherry) of Lake Forest Park.

Jim was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Nile Temple Shrine, Seattle Elks Lodge, and Washington Athletic Club.

A memorial service will be planned for a future date.

Memorials may be made to Plymouth Congregational Church Seattle and Horizon House Residents’ Assistance Fund.