Terry Vincent Perkins

Terry was born on January 20, 1947 to the late Merlin Perkins and Audrey Roberts Perkins in Fontana, California. Terry was a decorated veteran of the US Navy and served three tours in Vietnam as an Aviation Structural Mechanic. After the war he was an almond rancher living in California. He returned to Kansas City and became a sign manufacturer, eventually honing his skill to become an accomplished neon tube bender. Not only did he build the signs, he built the neon plant where the signs were assembled. Terry was a natural athlete and received letters in every sport in high school. He was an excellent cook and prepared many wonderful meals for family and friends – his specialty was Mexican dishes. He was skilled in every area of fixing, mending, and constructing with any type of material.

His demeanor was that of a true gentleman. He welcomed everyone with a warm smile. He was a beloved friend, brother, uncle, husband and father. Terry and Barb were married in Kansas City where they had their daughter Molli. They moved to St. Louis and then to Apex in 1997. As a family they enjoyed trips to the beach where Terry was in his true element. A memorable trip for Terry and Barb was to Madrid, Spain to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary. Terry was a very involved Dad and active participant in many Girl Scout, church ski trips, parties, and also was at the bus stop for kids throughout the neighborhood. He loved all of his animals, dogs, cats, birds, and squirrels and they loved being by his side. Two sports he loved – NASCAR and the Durham Bulls Baseball.

Terry is survived by his wife of 28 years Barbara Edwards Perkins. He is also survived by his daughter Molli (Justin) Matheny, brothers Ronald (Connie) Perkins of Texas, Jim (Carol) Perkins of Kansas, sister-in-law Katie (Bill) Burckhalter of Missouri. He was a loving uncle to eighteen nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Richard Perkins of Texas.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 19, 2016 at 11:00 AM at Apex Funeral Home, 550 W Williams St, Apex, NC 27502 with a visitation to follow the service.

Memorial contributions may be made in Terry's honor to The Lung Cancer Initiative at www.lungcancerinitiativenc.org/

Condolences may be left at www.apexfuneral.net