Howard Pat Perry

Perry, Howard Pat 1933-2012 A celebration of the life of Howard “Pat” Perry will be held on Dec.28, 2012 at First Christian Church in Okmulgee. If you ask, he might tell you his life was a long and good one, and that he did exactly what he wanted to do, whether you liked it or not. Pat enjoyed the great outdoors, guns, dogs, ignoring his doctor, and spinning a good yarn when it suited him. Born in October 1933 in Okmulgee, Ok, Pat was the oldest son of Howard Leon and Eunice (McBrayer) Perry. In a 1935 baby contest, he was awarded first place for “Boys - Personality“– his family can show you the trophy if you don’t believe it. Since he would never have put on a show for anyone else, we can only assume the judges saw the rollicking antics of a tow-headed toddler and named them “charm”. A proud member of the Okmulgee High School class of 1951, Pat was known for his good looks and fun-loving character. We’d like to think he has already rounded up some of the old “gang” in heaven, and they are having a hearty laugh at the “Linger Longer.” (No good-natured fist-fights allowed up there, boys.) After high school, he attended Oklahoma A&M College (now OSU) and then served in the United States Army 1953-1955. Pat is survived by wife Donna Perry, of Okmulgee. He married Donna on his 30th birthday, just over 49 years ago, and together they built a life filled with strong family, hard work, laughter and love. Pat had the good sense to know that a woman of exceptional spirit and beauty could match his wit, not to mention chuckle along with his practical jokes. Straightforward strength, wit and wisdom served Pat well as loving father to his four children, Susan, Jane, Nancy and Mike. Each of them shared his love of nature, and sitting on the porch to watch a good Oklahoma thunderstorm. They would tell you of a man who listened thoughtfully and put his foot down when necessary. And each may have inherited a bit of a stubborn streak, as well. Pat was a loyal employee at Public Service Company of Oklahoma, retiring in 1994 after 36 years there. Those who worked alongside him may remember his self-appointed title of “Decision Revision Coordinator”, and a few remarkable winning streaks during early-morning games of cards or dominos. Youngest son, Mike Perry, lives in Okmulgee with wife Leslie, son Quinton and daughter Megan. Mike followed in his dad’s footsteps with a career at Public Service Company of Oklahoma, and shares a love of hunting at Pat’s acreage near Weleetka. Daughter Nancy Perry Parsons lives in Missouri with her husband Dale, and children Katy, Hunter and Jacob. Nancy regrets that she didn’t write down all of her Dad’s stories – they never failed to end in a good belly laugh. Pat’s second child, Jane Perry Johnston, passed away in 2003. She was the daughter of first wife Virginia Barrett, who also preceded him in death. Jane’s children, Leslie Parker, Samantha Johnston and Richard “Cooper” Johnston, survive their grandpa and will remember visits to Okmulgee with fondness. First child Susan Perry Taylor Andrews is also his daughter with Virginia Barrett. Susan lives in Tulsa with husband Heath. Susan’s children, Lisa Gielow, Michelle Taylor and Ginny Taylor, live in Albuquerque, NM, and have given Pat his 6 great-grandchildren: Daniel, Siempre, Carmen, Ezekiel, Elena and Kadence. Susan has her Dad’s tenacious spirit, and was a steadfast source of comfort as his health declined over the last few weeks. Pat is also preceded in death by his parents, and by beloved brother, Robert “Bob” Leon Perry. They are survived by Bob’s wife, Helen, children Kris and David, their spouses and children. The world could use more men who celebrate life’s simple pleasures: a deer stand in a tall tree, a soft arm chair, a loyal dog, sitting in comfortable togetherness with those you love. Pat’s friends and family will remember him for all of those things and many more. In lieu of flowers, the Perry family suggests memorial gifts to Okmulgee/Creek County CASA or Special Olympics. Memorial services will be held on Friday, December 28, 2010 at 2:00 pm at the First Christian Church in Okmulgee, with Rev. Charles Green Officiating. McClendon-Winters Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be made at mcclendon-winters.com.

Howard Pat Perry

October 4, 1933 - December 16, 2012