He was born at Fort Hood (Gatesville), TX on September 23, 1944 to the late James Elbert Perkins and Mary Exie Hortman Perkins. Ray resided in Moultrie, GA during his early years before moving to Bainbridge, GA and then finally to Blakely in 1957. Ray remained in his home until his passing. Ray graduated from Early County High School in 1963. He then attended Norman Junior College in Norman Park, GA, where he studied Business Administration. Ray joined his father in the N.A.P.A. Auto Parts business in Blakely. After Ray’s father retired, Ray’s son, Jim, joined him in the business of Blakely Auto Parts. The business grew to include the N.A.P.A. store in Eufaula, AL. Together they served the community of Blakely and the farmers in southwest Georgia for six decades. In his so-called retirement, Ray was the sole proprietor of Universal Synthetic Technology servicing the tri-state area.
Ray is perhaps most remembered in the Blakely community as an avid outdoorsman. He loved to spend his time hunting and fishing with his family and friends. He was an instructor for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Hunter Safety course for 35 years. He founded the SOWEGA B.A.S.S. Bassmaster Fishing Club and later joined the Dothan Bassmaster Club. Ray participated in numerous Bassmaster Tournament Trail competitions all over the southeastern United States, winning many awards and recognition; but mostly gathering tall-tales and not nearly enough cash.
Ray is also well known for his connection to the Boy Scouts of America. As a Boy Scout, he attended the 1957 National Boy Scout Jamboree in Valley Forge, PA. As an adult, he was particularly proud to serve as a Scout Master within the Chehaw Council. For many years, Ray directed the Eagle Scout review board and investiture committee. During his tenure, he proudly raised 36 Eagle Scouts, including Jeff Braswell, Don Braswell, and Quinten Mitchell. However, he was most pleased to oversee the investiture of his two sons, Jim and Jeff Perkins.
Ray was a member of the First Baptist Church of Blakely for 65 years. He also was a member of the Magnolia Lodge #86 of the Free and Accepted Masons of Georgia. He held many local and state offices, including Past Master of the local lodge.
Ray is survived by his wife of 56 years, Priscilla Carlan Perkins; three children: Raymond James Perkins, Jr. (Jeanette) of Calhoun, GA; Julie Perkins Miller (Chris) of Fortson, GA; and Jefferson Howard Perkins (Valerie) of Fort Worth, TX; eight grandchildren: Alex Perkins (Halie), Blake Perkins, Sean Miller, Paige Miller, Kellie Perkins, William Perkins, Wesley Perkins and Madeline Perkins; one great-granddaughter: Riley Madison Perkins; as well as, sisters: Martha Jo Morrison of Tallahassee, FL and Exie Ruth Buffington (Ken) of Ellijay, GA and five nieces and one nephew.
A Celebration of Ray's Life will be held at 11:00 am Friday, September 16, 2022 at the First Baptist Church of Blakely with Rev. Lyle Brackin, Alan Braswell and Jeff Perkins officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at First Baptist Church. A private family interment will follow at Blakely Cemetery with Masonic Rites.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, 790 S. Church Street, Blakely, GA 39823 or Columbus Hospice, 7020 Moon Road, Columbus, GA 31909.
Ray was a gregarious person who never met a stranger. He was a friend to all that he met. The family would like to acknowledge his brotherhood of friends: Robert Odgen, Alan Braswell, David Bruner, Tony Hawkins, Teddy Waller, Ryan Harrell, Ladon McDowell, Eddie McDowell, Blake Shierling, Sam Clinkscales, Will Chandler, and thousands of others.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shcolumbus.com for the Perkins family.
