Paul Eligha Perkins, known to many as Perk, died on April 17, 2026, in Cleveland, Tennessee, at the age of 87 after a battle with cancer. He was born on July 13, 1938, in Meigs County, Tennessee, and lived a life marked by service, faith, hard work, and a warm presence that left a lasting impression on family, friends, and the many people he met along the way.

Perk attended College Hill High School and carried on the values of that upbringing throughout his life. He was a Christian man whose faith was not only spoken but lived. For more than 30 years, he served as a deacon and faithful member of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, where he was respected for his steady devotion, his leadership, and his commitment to the church family. Those who knew him remember a man who was friendly, handy, and adventurous, with a spirit that welcomed others and a character that could be counted on.

His life of service also included honorable duty in the United States military, where he achieved the rank of Lieutenant and received a Good Conduct Medal before being honorably discharged. That chapter of his life reflected the discipline and integrity that would continue to define him in the years that followed. He later built a long and distinguished career as a truck driver for Magic Chef, where he worked for more than 25 years. During that time, he earned recognition as one of the safest drivers, reaching 3 million miles without a single accident, a remarkable accomplishment that spoke to his focus, skill, and professionalism.

After retiring from Magic Chef, Perk continued to serve his community in a different way by taking a part-time position as a door greeter at Walmart. He worked there for 11 years and became a familiar and welcoming face to countless people as they entered and left the store. In that role, he touched many lives simply by offering kindness, conversation, and a genuine smile. His presence was a reminder that even the smallest acts of courtesy can leave a lasting impact.

Perk also found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. He enjoyed farming, bowling, traveling, and attending his annual Truck Driver’s Breakfast. He especially loved a good breakfast of rabbit gravy and biscuits with his brother-in-law, Robert Thomas. He and his late wife also enjoyed hosting gatherings and leading weekly Bible study, creating a home that was filled with fellowship, faith, and hospitality. These moments reflected the rhythm of a life centered on family, community, and Christian devotion.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Perkins Sr. and Izola Perkins; his wife, Mamie Perkins; his sister, Mary Sue Perkins; his son, Pharrel Isom; his bonus children, Jeffery & Jessee White. He leaves to cherish his memory his sister, Delores Seymore; his daughter, Daphne Perkins; his son, Eustace Perkins and Dawn; his daughter, Tina Perkins; & his bonus daughter, Amy Cramer & Sam. Grandchildren: Jessica White; La’Kisha Langston and Johnny; Ieisha White; Debrahia King; Branca Perkins; Kenisha Smith; Jalesa Sandifer and Aaron; Tamaya Perkins; William McClellan and Sharette; Tichina Isom and Jarrett; and Constance Isom. Great-Grandchildren: TaShaun Chestand and Aydan; MaKenzi White-Gills; Jayrel Arnwine; De’Naji Butchee; Kaiden Smith; Janiyah Arnwine; and Aria Sandifer. His family remembers him as a steady and loving presence whose influence will continue through generations.

As the news of his passing is shared, those who knew Paul Eligha Perkins are remembering a man who lived with purpose and dignity. He was a veteran, a worker, a church servant, a family man, and a friend. His life reflected endurance, humility, and care for others. As author Maya Angelou once wrote, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” For many, Perk will be remembered for the comfort, respect, and encouragement he gave so freely.

His legacy is one of faithfulness, hard-earned accomplishment, and deep love for his family and community. Though his earthly journey has ended, the example he set and the memories he created will remain alive in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.