Russell Loyd Perkins

Russell Perkins, 95, of Bear Creek NC, passed away on May 11, 2024. He was born in Tucson, Arizona on June 9, 1928. He was the eldest of 12 children. He grew up in the southwest of the United States, frequently moving with his family, including one year going to five schools. A child of the Great Depression, he grew up in difficult times that shaped the strong man he became.

He leaves behind three sisters; Barbara Osborne in Arizona, Dawn Santeford in Washington State, and Robin Martin in Washington State. He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Perkins. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Catherine Perkins, his son Lancel Jones, as well as Michael’s wife, his daughter in law Susan Silverstein-Perkins; his grandchildren Ayla Perkins, Winston Salem, Lotus Perkins, Richmond, VA, Shana Perkins, Raleigh, Logan Perkins, Durham, and Nolan Perkins, Durham; as well as his great grandchildren Mikahl and Nicolai Dunn, Richmond, VA.

Russell was a Navy veteran, who served in the Korean War on the Destroyer USS John R.Craig. After serving his country, he worked for many years as an engineer on Military, FCC and NASA contracts. Russell worked on the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo projects until putting a man on the moon. He traveled all over the world and told of working in all 50 states and in many countries, including places in Africa, South America, Pacific Islands, Philippines, Japan, China, Russia and other Asian areas.

After traveling all over the country, Russell chose to settle down in North Carolina 50 years ago. He decided he would run a farm and live the good country life in what he thought were his older years. Turns out, he had plenty more years to come! After trying his hand at farming for years, he found his way into another worthy venture, establishing needed infrastructure for handicapped adults in his now home of Chatham County. He helped establish the Sheltered Workshop for Chatham County, and the Chatham County Group Homes for special needs adults. He was made Administrator for the Chatham County Group Homes until his final retirement at age 74. They had established 10 homes and are just another example of the wonderful things he did on this earth.

Russell had a variety of interests, including his cowboy hats and Jeopardy, but almost none compared to his love of Cribbage. He was an avid cribbage player and a Charter Member of the American Cribbage Congress, where he eventually earned the status of Life Master. This was a passion and hobby he shared with his beloved wife. A private ceremony for friends and family to honor the life of Russell Perkins will be hosted soon. We are saddened at the loss, but joyful at what he had brought to all our lives.

Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Perkins family.