Barbara Jean Perkey

Barbara Jean Perkey, 78, passed away in Jacksonville, FL on Tuesday, October 4, 2011. She was born March 31, 1933 in Raiford, FL to Oliver Barney Gordon and Elsie Lorita (Stokes) Gordon. She graduated from Union County High School in May 25, 1951. She was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church in Raiford, FL.

While working in Jacksonville she met the love of her life, Harry Perkey; they were united in marriage on December 24, 1953, Jacksonville, FL. In 1972, Barbara and Harry moved to Tamarac, FL, where she worked for the Broward County Public Schools and retired in 1997 after 20 years of service. She recently moved back to Jacksonville to be close to her son and family.

Throughout her life, Barbara’s children and their families were a great source of pride and love. Barbara was loved and admired by all who knew her. She was kind and accepting toward all, and always putting others before herself. She was a loving and caring mother and grandmother, and a devoted friend. Barbara taught us to see the good in everyone and she always had a smile on her face. Her love and graciousness will be deeply missed by her family and friends.

Many people touched Barbara’s life and in return she meant a great deal to many. Her family would like to extend immense gratitude to those who gave deeply of themselves to support Barbara as she began a rapid decline this past month, mostly the wonderful staff at the Wyndham Lakes Independent & Assisted Living retirement community.

Barbara is survived by her son, David Perkey and his wife Priscilla of Jacksonville, FL; daughters Donna Stalters of Baltimore, MD and Linda Panos of Houston, TX; grandchildren Heather, Jeffrey and Brian Stalters, and Paige and Rachael Panos; brothers Hal Gordon, Wallace Gordon and his wife Terry, Gene Gordon and his wife Sherry, and Michael Gordon; sister, Joan Graham and her husband Phillip. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, and other cherished family members and faithful friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two brothers, Richard and Marcus; sister, Lorita; sister-in-law, Nan.

Visitation will be held Saturday, October 8, from noon until 2:00 pm at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Chapel, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville FL. The funeral service celebrating Barbara’s life will be held at 2:15 pm, Saturday, at the Oaklawn Chapel. Chaplain Gary Hutchinson will officiate. Barbara will be laid to rest beside her husband at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Pompano Beach, FL on Monday, October 10, 2011 at a graveside service. Visitation will precede the service.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.oaklawn-chapel.com.